Bill > SB25

This bill amends Alaska state law to enhance the information provided about judicial officers seeking retention in office. Specifically, the bill modifies requirements for judicial officers and the Alaska Judicial Council when submitting information for retention elections. Judicial officers can now file a more comprehensive personal statement with the lieutenant governor by August 7 of the election year, including a photograph, details about their residency, military service, professional activities, and other supporting information. The Judicial Council must also provide a more detailed evaluation of each justice or judge, expanding from a previous 600-word limit to nearly 1,200 words. For superior court and district court judges, this includes a statement of their professional philosophy, educational background, business experience, service organization affiliations, potential ratings by legal professionals, appellate court decision statistics, disciplinary proceedings, and a self-assessment. For supreme court and court of appeals judges, similar information is required, with additional details for first-time retention candidates such as previous political positions, pre-appointment legal practice areas, and types of clients represented. The bill aims to provide voters with more comprehensive and transparent information about judicial officers seeking to remain in office.

Government Affairs

https://www.akleg.gov/basis/Bill/Detail/34?Root=SB25