Mass. Senate to debate Kennedy successor bill today

[babylonsister]

http://www.salon.com/wires/ap/us/2009/09/22/D9ASB8PO0_us_kennedy_successor/index.html

Mass. Senate to debate Kennedy successor bill


Sep 22nd, 2009 | BOSTON -- The Massachusetts Senate is scheduled to debate a bill that would allow the governor to name an interim replacement to fill the late Edward Kennedy's U.S. Senate seat.

Republican lawmakers delayed debate again Monday after first postponing action on Friday, but say they don't anticipate objecting again -- paving the way for a Tuesday debate and vote.

They concede backers of the bill likely have a narrow majority.

If it passes, the bill will require a final vote in both chambers Wednesday before heading to Gov. Deval Patrick. The House gave the bill initial approval last week.

Patrick supports the measure and could name an appointment as soon as he signs the bill. The appointee would serve until voters pick a permanent replacement during a Jan. 19 special election.