DENVER (AP) - Colorado lawmakers advanced a proposal to allow business owners and employees in the state the right to use deadly force against suspected intruders.

The bill passed a House committee Thursday on a 6-5 party-line vote with Republican support.

The bill dubbed "Make My Day Better" expands to businesses the legal protections that exist for people who use deadly force at home.

Opponents say the bill gives too much power and immunity to business owners and that self-defense protections already exist.

Supporters say businesses shouldn't have to rely on law enforcement to protect them when seconds are critical in a violent situation.

The proposal has a good chance of passing the Republican-led House but its prospects in the Democratic-controlled led Senate are dim.