Bill > SCR1611

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to change how Kansas Supreme Court justices are selected, replacing the current appointment system with direct elections. The amendment would abolish the Supreme Court Nominating Commission and allow justices to participate in political activities, which is currently prohibited. Under the proposed changes, Kansas citizens would directly elect Supreme Court justices to six-year terms, with specific positions to be elected in different election years: positions 1, 2, and 3 in 2028, positions 4 and 5 in 2030, and positions 6 and 7 in 2032, with subsequent elections every six years thereafter. Any vacancies during an unexpired term would be filled by election as provided by law. The resolution also removes previous restrictions on justices' political involvement, enabling them to make political contributions, hold party offices, and participate in political campaigns when running for an appellate court position. The proposed amendment would fundamentally alter the current merit-based selection process, where a nominating commission composed mostly of lawyers would provide the governor with a list of potential candidates, to a system where voters directly choose their Supreme Court justices.

Government Affairs, Justice

Federal and State Affairs (Senate)

https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/scr1611/