Bill > HB1490

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment to raise the mandatory retirement age for judges in Maryland from 70 to 75 years old. The proposed change would apply to judges in various courts, including appellate courts, circuit courts, and the District Court, with the exception of Orphans' Court judges. Currently, judges must retire when they reach 70 years of age, but this amendment would extend their service for an additional five years. The bill ensures that judges currently serving can continue in their roles until they reach 75, and it allows retired judges to be temporarily reassigned to courts as needed. The proposed amendment will be submitted to Maryland voters for their approval or rejection at the general election in November 2026, where voters will have the opportunity to vote "For" or "Against" the constitutional amendment. The bill also specifies that this amendment applies across multiple judicial jurisdictions and does not require local approval, which would typically be necessary for constitutional changes affecting specific regions.

Government Affairs

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1490?ys=2025RS