Bill > HB0512

This bill modifies the judicial retention evaluation process by updating several key provisions related to how judicial performance is reviewed and reported. The bill requires the Judicial Performance Evaluation Commission to compile a retention report for judges at least 45 days before their retention election, with specific guidelines about when such reports become public records. The bill allows judges who receive an unfavorable or favorable evaluation to provide a written response or request an interview with the commission within 15 days of receiving their report. The retention report must include survey results, information about the judge's compliance with certification standards, any public discipline, a narrative about performance, and the commission's determination about the judge's retention. The bill also mandates that the commission conduct a public education campaign to inform people about their evaluation process and make reports publicly available online. Additionally, the bill requires the commission to provide a summary of judicial performance evaluations to the lieutenant governor for voter information pamphlets and to the Judicial Council. The bill includes a fiscal appropriation of $14,400 for the Judicial Performance Evaluation Commission and is set to take effect on May 7, 2025.