Bill > HJR013

This joint resolution proposes to amend the Utah Constitution to modify how judges are retained in their positions. Currently, judges are subject to retention elections where voters decide whether to keep them on the bench at regular intervals. This proposal introduces a new provision allowing the Utah Legislature to initiate a special retention election for a judge if they believe the judge is unfit, incompetent, delays decisions excessively, or engages in improper conduct. This special election could happen sooner than the regular retention cycle and can be initiated even if the judge is also subject to impeachment or disciplinary proceedings. The Legislature will establish the specific procedures for these special elections, and if a special election occurs in the same year as a regular one, the special election can replace the regular one for that year. The proposed amendment will be submitted to voters at the next general election, and if approved, will take effect on January 1, 2027.

https://le.utah.gov/~2026/bills/static/HJR013.html