PIERRE, S.D. (SDBA) — Suspended Republican state Sen. Julie Frye-Mueller of Rapid has filed a lawsuit Monday in Federal District Court in Pierre.

Republican Sen. Tom Pischke from Dell Rapids announced that Frye-Mueller filed the lawsuit during an attempt to have the Senate reinstate her and pause the investigation.

The suit names Sen. Lee Schoenbeck, President Pro Tem of the Senate from Watertown, in his official capacity.

Former Republican Rep. Steven Haugaard from Sioux Falls represents Frye-Mueller.

Frye-Mueller also requested the court expedite the proceedings.

Also, Monday, the Senate passed an amendment to its rules to handle personal matters.

Sen. Schoenbeck said that was similar “to what any South Dakota employer might do” in the same situation.