Medford, Ore. — The sudden passing of Oregon State Senator Alan Bates is leaving an unexpected vacancy in the Oregon State Legislature.
Dr. Bates still had 2 years remaining in his senate term, and because there are more than 60 days before the election, his senate seat will be filled by a vote. However, only a few weeks remain before the deadline to file for a position in November.
Jackson County Clerk Chris Walker says they are working with the Secretary of State’s office to navigate the process.
“Oregon statutes are very specific in the process it follows,” Chris Walker says, “and of course is very specific that if it happens at a certain time frame that that position will appear on the next general election.”
In the next 30 days someone will be appointed to fill Bates’ seat until the end of 2016.
Senator Bates died Friday night of an apparent medical issue while fishing with his son. He was 71 years old. A memorial service has not yet been scheduled.
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