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OKLAHOMA CITY — Gov. Mary Fallin has called a special election to fill the vacancy left by the resignation of state Rep. Dan Kirby.

Kirby, R-Tulsa, resigned earlier this month after a House panel recommended he be expelled from the House of Representatives following an investigation into allegations of sexual harassment. Kirby has denied wrongdoing.

The filing period is Feb. 27, 28 and March 1. The special primary election is set for May 9. The general election is set for July 11. In the event that a special primary election is not necessary, the special general election will be May 9.

Kirby’s resignation on Feb. 4 is effective March 1.

House Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka, asked the House Rules Committee to investigate after news broke that former House Speaker Jeff Hickman, R-Fairview, approved a $44,500 settlement to one of Kirby’s former assistants and her attorneys to settle a wrongful termination and sexual harassment claim.

Hickman said no sexual harassment was found but that it was cheaper to settle the claim than litigate it.

Kirby initially resigned but then rescinded that resignation, vowing to fight the allegations and clear his name.