(AP) -- COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- A South Carolina proposal aimed at protecting teachers and other school employees from student attacks has advanced.

Students who seriously injure a teacher on school grounds or at a school-sponsored event would be guilty of a felony. A conviction of assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature could bring up to 10 years in prison or a fine of up to $5,000.

The Senate unanimously approved the measure 40-0 Tuesday and sent it to the House.

The bill also allows assaulted teachers to sue a convicted student.

It applies to students who are enrolled, on suspension or expelled from a school within a year. Employees covered by the bill include administrators, school bus drivers, substitutes and janitors.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

APNP 02-10-09 1241EST

(Copyright ©2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)