An Act To Require a Vacancy in the Office of United States Senator To Be Filled by Election

Sec. 1. 21-A MRSA §391,  as enacted by PL 1985, c. 161, §6, is repealed.

Sec. 2. 21-A MRSA §391-A  is enacted to read:

§ 391-A.  United States Senators

When there is a vacancy in the office of United States Senator, the Governor shall issue a proclamation declaring the vacancy and ordering a special primary followed by a special election to fill the vacancy as provided in section 366. The special election must be held within 60 days of the vacancy.

summary

This bill changes the way in which a United States Senator is replaced when a vacancy occurs by requiring a special election within 60 days of the vacancy. Currently, the Governor appoints a qualified person to fill the vacancy until the successor is elected and qualified. Having a special election matches the way a vacancy in the office of Representative to Congress is replaced.