A Senate committee Monday approved its version of a $11 billion supplemental budget that focuses on education and core services along with key provisions of Gov. Neil Aber­crombie’s New Day initiative.

The Senate Ways and Means Committee advanced the budget bill unanimously.

"The committee found merit in the majority of the governor’s proposals and funded them as they pertain to maintaining the safety net and restoring the ability of government to perform certain necessary functions," said Sen. David Ige (D, Aiea-Pearl City), committee chairman.

Ige called the budget "responsible and responsive" to the governor’s requests.

It includes $12 million to upgrade computer systems at state agencies and improve management processes. The initiatives include information technology pilot projects and assessment of existing systems.

The budget also includes funds for Abercrombie’s initiatives focused on protecting important watersheds, the disability resource center, the state broadband initiative, obesity and diabetes prevention programs, and early learning programs.

The panel also appropriated $15 million for the Department of Education to go directly to schools under the weighted student formula, providing funds directly to schools based on student enrollment.

The budget now goes to the Senate floor for a vote by the full chamber, and then to a joint House-Senate conference committee to negotiate differences.

One key difference is the Senate’s inclusion of funds for $500 million in bond-financed construction projects at public schools, hospitals and state buildings.

The Senate passed the centerpiece legislation, but the House has yet to hold a hearing on the bill.