Senate Republicans successfully used a rare procedural move to seize a philosophical majority and pass their own budget proposal off the Senate floor.

After several hours of debate, the measure moved on a 25-24 vote early Saturday morning and now heads to the House, where it is certain to face a challenge from Democrats there, as well as from Gov. Chris Gregoire.

Three Democrats broke from their party to allow the procedure - known as a "Ninth Order" - to take place and then voted in favor of the Republican plan.

Republicans and the three Democrats voted against more than 30 Democratic amendments. All were seeking to restore funding to programs that were cut under the Republican proposal.