A bill to merge the Capitol Police with the Maine State Police has hit a snag after the Maine House voted it down Monday, following its passage in the Senate.

The Department of Public Safety proposed the bill after the resignation of Capitol Police Chief Matthew Clancy last October, who now faces assault charges following a confrontation at a Hallowell bar.

Capitol Police specifically handle security at the Maine State House complex in Augusta.

The bill was sponsored by Democratic House Speaker Ryan Fecteau of Biddeford. But eight Democrats in the House voted with Republicans to reject it 64-78.

It is opposed by the union for Capitol Police, the Maine State Law Enforcement Association, with Executive Director Kevin Anderson noting that State Police Troopers make between $12 to $15 more an hour than Capitol Police Officers.

“Currently, the Department had not agreed to address the huge pay parity issue this bill will if it is enacted and begins to be implemented,” said Anderson in written testimony.

The Maine Senate and House will have a chance to reconsider and vote again on the bill. It will die if no agreement is reached, as the legislature is scheduled to adjourn for the year in less than 10 days.