Judge To Rule On Filing Deadlines

{Frankfort, Kentucky}...Franklin Circuit Judge Phillip Shepherd says he will rule by the end of business Tuesday on the House Republicans' request for a temporary injunction to delay Tuesday's filing deadline for state legislative candidates. Monday, the House voted 95-0 for an extension allowing lawmakers more time to work out a congressional redistricting plan after the Senate approved the measure 25-0 Friday. House Republicans filed a lawsuit last week challenging the constitutionality of newly drawn legislative boundaries that they claim favor Democrats. Judge Shepherd said Monday that, if he does postpone the filing deadline for candidates wanting to run in this year's House and Senate elections, it would likely be done by issuing a temporary restraining order that would remain in place at least until a full evidentiary hearing is held. House Speaker Greg Stumbo says he's hopeful the matter can be resolved this week.