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Bill

HB 788

Judiciary Department - Commission on Judicial Disabilities - Temporary Appointment

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Frank Conaway and 1 co-sponsor

Maryland HB 788 authorizes temporary judicial disability commission appointments to prevent operational gaps during regular appointment delays, requiring voter approval via constitutional referendum.

Assigned a chapter number, enactment subject to constitutional referendum - Chapter 848
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Bill Summary · HB 788

Legislative bill overview

HB 788 modifies Maryland's Commission on Judicial Disabilities by allowing temporary appointments to fill vacancies when the regular appointment process cannot be completed within a specified timeframe. The bill establishes procedures for how these interim commissioners would be selected and the duration of their service, streamlining judicial oversight operations during gaps in commission membership.

Why is this important

The Commission on Judicial Disabilities investigates complaints against judges and can recommend discipline or removal. Vacancies on this commission could delay investigations into judicial misconduct, potentially affecting public confidence in judicial accountability. The bill ensures continuity of this critical oversight function by preventing operational gaps that could slow or halt disciplinary proceedings.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional concerns: The bill requires a constitutional referendum (as noted in the action history), suggesting it may affect constitutionally-protected judicial appointment or removal procedures
  • Temporary vs. permanent fix: Critics may argue this addresses symptoms rather than root causes of appointment delays in the regular confirmation process
  • Appointment authority: Questions about who selects temporary commissioners and whether the process adequately represents diverse perspectives or maintains judicial independence safeguards

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

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