The Connecticut House narrowly said yes Friday evening to a plan that could allow MGM to build a casino in Bridgeport.

MGM wants to build a $700 million complex on the Bridgeport waterfront but can't bid on a casino license without state approval. MGM has promised 7,000 jobs at the casino, hotel and entertainment complex.

The House voted to open up the process to private bidders like MGM.

The plan appeared dead for the year. But in a surprise move Thursday night, Bridgeport lawmakers forced a debate on the issue that lasted about an hour. They resumed the debate just before 3 p.m. Friday.

Connecticut's two existing casinos -- Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun -- have exclusive rights to gaming in the state and are fighting the Bridgeport plan. Breaking that exclusivity deal could cost the state $200 million a year.

The measure now moves onto the state Senate, where it's expected to face a tough uphill battle. It's also unclear if it's supported by Gov. Dannel Malloy.