Bill > SJR27

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to modify the State Commission on Judicial Conduct (SCJC), its review tribunal, and disciplinary processes for judges in Texas. The amendment restructures the Commission's membership to include 13 total members: six judges or justices appointed by the Texas Supreme Court (with Senate consent), including two trial court judges, and seven citizens appointed by the Governor (with Senate consent) who are at least 35 years old. The resolution establishes new rules regarding member qualifications, such as preventing judges from serving on the Commission if they are from the same type of court. It expands the Commission's disciplinary powers to include issuing private admonitions, public reprimands, and requiring additional training, and allows for more flexible sanctioning of judges for misconduct. The amendment also modifies the review tribunal composition and gives it broader authority to impose penalties like suspension without pay, retirement, or removal. A temporary provision outlines a transitional process for implementing these changes, with new commissioners to be appointed in 2026 and existing commissioners' terms expiring on July 1, 2026. The proposed constitutional amendment will be submitted to Texas voters in a November 4, 2025 election.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SJR27