BOSTON - The Massachusetts House of Representatives has approved a bill allowing Democratic Gov. Deval Patrick to name an interim appointment to the Senate seat left vacant by the death of Edward Kennedy.
The move could result in the Democrats maintaining control of 60 out of 100 seats in the Senate, a key number for passing legislation.
The House voted 95-58 in favour of the bill Thursday evening. The bill now moves to the Massachusetts Senate, where its prospects are uncertain.
House Speaker Robert DeLeo, a Democrat, said the change is needed to ensure Massachusetts continues to be represented by two senators until voters can choose a replacement during a Jan. 19 special election.
Kennedy died Aug. 25 of brain cancer.
