On January 14, 2009, Rep. Christopher Fierro introduced H 5094, legislation that would give Rhode Island's voters the final say on their US Senator in case of vacancies. FairVote backed similar legislation last year sponsored by Rep. David Segal and Sen. Paul Jabour.

This year FairVote hopes recent publicity over the unusual ability of some Governors to select US Senators will provide the bill with renewed public and legislative support.