Eds: APNewsNow. Will be led.

By MATT GOURAS Associated Press Writer HELENA, Mont. (AP) Backers of an initiative promising to increase home health care options for the elderly say they have agreed to withdraw the measure amid concerns the idea would cost too much.

Initiative 159 was billed as a way to increase home nursing care options and give people alternatives to institutional nursing homes.

But critics say it would stress the state budget to the benefit of a union of nurses and service workers.

The Service Employees International Union says it has agreed to withdraw the measure even though it appears they have enough signatures gathered to get it on the November ballot.

Instead the group says it will work with lawmakers and the governor's office to advance the issue.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 06-25-08 1605CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list