Controversial legislation that would have allowed treasure hunters to scour state parks and historical sites with metal detectors has hit a roadblock in the Kentucky legislature.

Tourism Development Committee Chairwoman Leslie Combs refused to call the proposal for a vote, essentially quashing the measure with only days remaining in the legislative session.

Preservationists had raised concerns that allowing treasure hunters to comb public land with metal detectors could allow relics that belong to the people of Kentucky to fall into private collections or be sold for cash.

Kentucky Archaeological Survey Director David Pollack said he's pleased Combs didn't allow a vote on the bill.