COLUMBIA --- Married couples in South Carolina would save an average of $27 a year on their state income taxes under a bill given key approval Wednesday.

House Republicans pushed the tax break as a way to show support for marriage, but Democrats said it is not enough to buy a tank of gas.

"We think marriage is a bedrock institution in our society. Any time we can affirm our support, we'll do that," said House Majority Leader Jim Merrill, R-Daniel Island. "We want to help married couples in any way possible."

The measure would eliminate the bottom tax rate for married couples filing jointly by 2010 through three years of cuts.

The actual tax break would vary depending on a couple's earnings.

Democrats called it foolish to approve a tax cut in this tight budget year for many people who don't need it and won't notice it. They tried unsuccessfully to amend the bill to target poorer residents, both married and single.

"The driving force behind marriage is love, love and commitment, not tax incentives," said Rep. Ken Kennedy, D-Greeleyville.

The bill is expected to cut state revenue by $4.5 million during the coming fiscal year. After the full cut is phased in over three years, it will cost $15.6 million annually.

The House approved the measure 100-14. It is expected to receive another routine vote today before heading to the Senate.

House Speaker Bobby Harrell, R-Charleston, said any tax cut is significant, but this one is about "recognizing the importance of families staying together."

House Minority Leader Harry Ott called it silly to think such a trivial amount might serve as a marriage incentive.

"Twenty-seven dollars a year is not going to keep you happily married," said the St. Matthews Democrat. "I would venture $27,000 would not keep you happily married if you don't love your spouse."