The Washington state Senate has passed a measure to allow livestock and pet owners to shoot gray wolves without a permit when the wolves are attacking or threatening their animals.

The bill, which passed the upper chamber Friday, is the latest salvo in an ongoing debate over how to cope with the reintroduction of the predatory canines in Washington state.

Supporters say the measure is necessary to allow people to protect their property.

Bill opponents say it would hurt the state's wolf recovery efforts and contradicts years of effort put into hashing out a state wolf plan.

The measure passed by a vote of 25-23, with Senate Majority Leader Rodney Tom not voting. It heads next to the Democratic-controlled House, where it faces an uphill battle for passage.