Bill
LC 1431
Overview: Bill Number: LC 1431, Title: Constitutional amendment to revise selection of certain judges and justices, Status: (LC) Draft Died in Process, Introduced: November 14, 202
Overview: Bill Number: LC 1431, Title: Constitutional amendment to revise selection of certain judges and justices, Status: (LC) Draft Died in Process, Introduced: November 14, 2024
Purpose and Intent: This bill proposes a constitutional amendment to change the process for selecting certain judges and justices in Montana. The goal is to increase accountability and public input in the judicial selection process.
Key Provisions:
- Require the governor to appoint Supreme Court justices and district court judges from a list of nominees provided by a judicial nominating commission
- Establish a judicial nominating commission composed of both legal professionals and members of the public
- Mandate that appointed judges and justices stand for retention elections after their initial terms
Affected Parties and Impacts:
- The judicial selection process would be altered, potentially impacting the composition and independence of the courts
- Voters would have a more direct role in retaining or removing judges and justices through retention elections
- The judicial nominating commission would play a significant role in the appointment process
Procedural and Timeline Considerations:
The bill was introduced in the Montana Legislature but did not progress further, dying in the drafting process. If reintroduced and passed, the proposed constitutional amendment would need to be approved by voters through a statewide referendum.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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