Funeral plans are set for Thursday for Massachusetts state Representative Gailanne Cariddi. The 63-year-old North Adams Democrat died over the weekend. It's not yet clear when a special election will be held to fill her seat.
It's up to House Speaker Robert DeLeo to set the special election date. His spokesperson declined comment.
A look at other special election timelines in Massachusetts shows the process could take three-to-four months once a date is chosen. This allows for gathering signatures and, if needed, a primary election.
Whoever wins could also face the possibility of having to mount a re-election campaign in 2018.
Meanwhile, flags are flying at half staff at state buildings in honor of Cariddi,who was in her fourth term in office.