Bill > H1945

This bill establishes a special commission on judicial accountability in Massachusetts to comprehensively study and develop recommendations for improving the processes of judicial nomination, selection, appointment, and oversight. The commission will be composed of a diverse group of members, including three appointees by the governor, representatives from both legislative chambers, and presidents (or their designees) from numerous bar associations and legal organizations across the state, representing various professional and demographic groups. The commission members will serve without compensation, elect their own leadership, and have the ability to request information from state agencies, hold public meetings and hearings, and utilize voluntary services. The commission is required to convene its first meeting within one month of appointment and submit an initial report of recommendations to the legislative clerks by December 1, 2021, with the report to be forwarded to the chairs of the Joint Committee on the Judiciary. The commission may also receive funds through authorization, appropriation, or donations to support its work of developing strategies to enhance judicial accountability in the Commonwealth.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1945