OK SB644

Replaces primary elections with legislative caucus selection for U.S. Senate nominees: members of Legislature from each party must meet in joint caucus by May 1 and select the nominee by majority vote.

If no Legislature members belong to a party with multiple candidates, or if legislators fail to select by sine die adjournment, the party shall select its nominee by fourth Tuesday of August according to party rules.

Unresolved candidate contests may delay selection to fourth Tuesday of August; if contest persists past May 1, party rules govern nominee selection.

For special elections to fill Senate vacancies, Governor sets filing period ending at least 120 days before election; Legislature selects nominees 100 days prior, or party selects 85 days prior if no legislators belong to party.

Takes effect January 1, 2018.