Bill > HJR1025

This joint resolution proposes an amendment to Section 3 of Article VII-B of the Oklahoma Constitution, which governs the Judicial Nominating Commission (JNC), a body responsible for selecting judges for state appellate courts. The amendment modifies the commission's membership by changing how its 15 members are appointed: six members would be appointed by the Governor (with at least one from each congressional district), six by the Senate President Pro Tempore (also representing different districts), and three by the House Speaker. The resolution introduces new provisions to address potential future changes in congressional districts, ensures political party balance (no more than four commissioners from one party), and alters the selection process by removing direct Oklahoma Bar Association elections. Commissioners would serve six-year terms (for gubernatorial and Senate appointees) or two-year terms (for House appointees), cannot succeed themselves, and are prohibited from holding other public offices. The amendment would be referred to voters for approval, with the changes implemented as current commission seats expire or become vacant. The resolution also provides a detailed ballot title explaining the proposed changes and directs the Chief Clerk of the House to file copies of the resolution with the Secretary of State and Attorney General.

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hjr1025&Session=2600