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COLUMBIA (AP) -- South Carolina House members are putting themselves on furlough to save money.

The House agreed Thursday to forgo next week's session, though some representatives may come to Columbia for committee meetings.

The House will also take off the weeks before and after Easter: March 30 through April 8.

The session is scheduled to end June 3.

The three furloughs are expected to save taxpayers more than $150,000, largely in salaries, mileage and meal and lodging allowances for the chamber's 124 members.

The Senate has not scheduled any furloughs.

Senate President Pro Tem Glenn McConnell said he wants senators to get work done first. The Charleston Republican said he learned last year that taking mid-session breaks allows senators to stall important legislation.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

APNP 02-04-10 1416EST