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SB 619

Judiciary Department - Commission on Judicial Disabilities - Temporary Appointment

2025 Regular Session

SB 619 enables temporary appointments to Maryland's Commission on Judicial Disabilities to maintain operations during vacancies, subject to voter constitutional referendum approval.

Assigned a chapter number, enactment subject to constitutional referendum - Chapter 849
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Bill Summary · SB 619

Legislative bill overview

SB 619 modifies Maryland's Commission on Judicial Disabilities by authorizing temporary appointments to fill vacancies when regular appointment procedures cannot be completed within a specified timeframe. The bill establishes procedures for these interim appointments and their duration, ensuring the commission can maintain operational capacity during transitions. The measure requires voter approval through constitutional referendum before taking effect.

Why is this important

The Commission on Judicial Disabilities handles complaints against judges and plays a critical oversight role in maintaining judicial accountability. Without provision for temporary appointments, commission vacancies could delay investigations into judicial misconduct or create backlogs in disciplinary proceedings. This reform ensures continuity of an essential governmental function that protects the integrity of Maryland's judicial system.

Potential points of contention

  • Judicial independence concerns: Critics may worry that temporary appointment procedures could compromise the independence or impartiality of commission members, particularly if appointments become politicized.
  • Constitutional requirements: The referendum requirement suggests existing state constitutional provisions may limit appointment flexibility, raising questions about whether this change adequately addresses structural issues.
  • Temporary vs. permanent solutions: Some may argue the bill treats a symptom rather than addressing why regular appointment procedures fail to fill vacancies timely.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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