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CACR 23

relative to legislative oversight of the judicial branch.establishing legislative oversight of the judicial branch.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Glenn Bailey and 6 co-sponsors

CACR 23 would constitutionally grant the legislature formal oversight of the judiciary, enlarging budgetary, investigative, and accountability powers over courts.

Minority Committee Report: Ought to Pass
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Bill Summary · CACR 23

Summary of CACR 23 — Relative to Legislative Oversight of the Judicial Branch

Overview

  • Bill Number: CACR 23
  • Title: Relative to legislative oversight of the judicial branch; establishing legislative oversight of the judicial branch.
  • Classification: Constitutional amendment
  • Status: To be introduced on January 7, 2026; referred to the Judiciary Committee.
  • Introduced: December 1, 2025

Purpose and intent

CACR 23 proposes a constitutional amendment to establish and formalize legislative oversight over the judicial branch. The bill seeks to modify the balance of accountability and oversight among state government branches by granting or clarifying legislative authorities over the judiciary. The exact mechanisms of oversight (e.g., investigative powers, appointment confirmation processes, budgetary review, or other checks) are not detailed in the provided summary, but the stated aim is to increase legislative involvement in oversight of judicial functions.

Key provisions (as implied by the bill’s title)

  • Establishment of a formal framework for legislative oversight of the judicial branch.
  • Likely authorization of oversight activities by the legislature, potentially including:
    • Review or supervision of budgetary matters related to the judiciary.
    • Investigative or advisory powers concerning judicial administration and conduct.
    • Procedures for reporting, accountability, and transparency of judicial operations.
    • Mechanisms to address judicial branch concerns through legislative channels.

Note: The exact text of provisions, thresholds, and procedural rules would be contained in the full bill language when introduced.

Who/what would be affected

  • Judicial Branch: Courts, judges, and judicial administration would fall under the new oversight framework.
  • Legislature: Lawmakers and legislative committees (notably Judiciary) would gain enhanced or formalized oversight responsibilities.
  • State government operations: Budgetary and administrative processes linking the judiciary to the legislative branch could be altered to reflect new oversight powers.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduction: Set to be introduced on January 7, 2026.
  • Referral: Referred to the Judiciary Committee upon introduction.
  • Initial status as of now: The bill is in the early stage of the legislative process; substantive text and fiscal impact analyses are not yet available in the provided summary.

Potential impact and considerations

  • If enacted, CACR 23 would alter constitutional balance by expanding legislative oversight over the judiciary, potentially affecting judicial independence, accountability mechanisms, and administrative processes.
  • The scope of oversight powers (e.g., budgetary vs. investigative) will influence potential impacts on judicial operations and how checks and balances function in practice.
  • Operational considerations include how oversight aligns with existing constitutional protections for judicial independence and any required timelines, reporting requirements, or enforcement mechanisms.

Questions to watch for (once full text is available)

  • What specific oversight powers are granted to the legislature (budgets, appointments, investigations, audits, annual reports)?
  • How does the amendment define the scope and limits of oversight to protect judicial independence?
  • What are the procedural steps, reporting requirements, and remedies for disputes between the legislature and judiciary?
  • Are there fiscal implications or cost considerations for implementing the oversight framework?

This summary reflects the information provided. The full text of CACR 23 will clarify the exact provisions, definitions, and implementation details.

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

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