(RALEIGH) -- State lawmakers have overturned Democratic Gov. Bev Perdue’s veto of a bill that would overhaul the rule-making process for agencies.

The House voted 76-42 in favor of the measure, which would also make dozens of changes to environmental policies and prevent agencies from having the final say on cases challenging the enforcement of those rules. In addition, the legislation would require agencies to consider the cost that new regulations would place on businesses impacted by the change.

“This bill makes North Carolina more business-friendly, and immediately makes our state more competitive when attracting new businesses,” House Speaker Thom Tillis, R-Mecklenburg, said in a statement.

Many Democrats argued that the Republican-backed bill erodes existing environmental protections and makes it difficult to update rules. Likewise, opponents said bill will ultimately harm the state’s air and water quality.

“This bill – 781 – has turned into a legislative Jihad on all things regulatory and that is way too far,” said Rep. Rick Glazier, D-Cumberland. “That is whiplash to the system and it is whiplash to all the stakeholders who need to have predictability.”

Perdue vetoed the measure, citing concerns that it would violate the state Constitution. She had indicated that she supported most of the bill and encouraged lawmakers to correct several problems instead of overturning her decision.

“If the Republican leadership is truly concerned about our business community, they should work with me to achieve balanced and meaningful reform,” Perdue said in a statement. “Today’s actions will only lead to unnecessary lawsuits and wasted opportunities.”

But Republicans criticized Perdue for failing to engage in the legislative process before attempting to block the bill. “We’re not here to approve what the governor wants,” said Rep. Pat McElraft, R-Carteret. “We’re here to approve what the citizens want.”

The House also voted 74-41 to override a Perdue veto on Medicaid-provider rules.