Dem state Sen. Jennifer Shilling, who announced this spring she wouldn’t seek reelection and then stepped down as the Senate minority leader, is resigning from her seat effective today to explore career opportunities.

Shilling, D-La Crosse, said she submitted her letter of resignation today because state law requires lawmakers to resign if a potential employment opportunity could present a conflict of interest. She didn’t specify what the opportunity was or the potential conflict.

“While I wish I could finish out my term and continue representing the residents and communities in the 32nd Senate District, I understand the clear boundaries set by state law that will require me to vacate my position in the State Senate earlier than anticipated,” Shilling said.

Shilling’s resignation will change the partisan balance in the Senate to a 19-13 Republican majority. GOP state Sen. Tom Tiffany, of Minocqua, is expected to resign his seat soon following his win this week in the special election for the 7th CD.

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