Senate committee gives favorable report to amendment requiring special election for early governor/lieutenant‑governor vacancies

Senator Van told the committee a proposed constitutional amendment would require a special election if the offices of governor and lieutenant governor were both vacant early in the term. "If that vacancy happens in the first 2 years... then we would have a special election," he said, explaining the goal was to avoid multi‑year vacancies in the lieutenant governor's office.

Supporters said the change would prevent scenarios in which presiding officers effectively hold dual roles for extended periods. Senator Moore said he favored the measure, noting prior instances when a pro tem assumed the chair for a long stretch and saying it was a real problem for Senate operations.

A motion (quoted in the transcript as "Motion by central order, second by senator Elliott") received a roll call and multiple 'Aye' responses; the chair announced the bill had been given a favorable report. The chair then adjourned the committee.

What happens next: The amendment received a favorable committee report and will move along the legislative process for further consideration.