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 (Providence-AP) -- The Senate Committee on Government Oversight will hear testimony on separation of powers legislation today.
   Last month, the house overwhelmingly approved a bill to end the General Assembly's long domination of state government.
      The bill calls for a clearer separation of power in the state constitution between the executive and legislative branches.
   It would prevent lawmakers from appointing colleagues to dozens of state boards and commissions and strengthens the governor's appointment powers.
   The Senate has passed a similar bill and lawmakers are attempting to work out a compromise.
   This is the first year both House and Senate leaders have committed support to separation of powers legislation.
   If a compromise is reached, it will have to be approved by voters.