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HJ 26

RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE NOMINATION OF THE HONORABLE JOSEPH M. SHORTALL OF BLOOMFIELD TO BE A STATE REFEREE.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Steve Stafstrom and 1 co-sponsor

Connecticut Legislature confirms Joseph M. Shortall's appointment as State Referee to preside over small claims court and civil disputes.

HOUSE CALENDAR NUMBER 22
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Bill Summary · HJ 26

Legislative bill overview

This resolution confirms the nomination of Joseph M. Shortall of Bloomfield to serve as a State Referee in Connecticut. State Referees are judicial officers who preside over small claims court proceedings and other lower-level disputes. The nomination has been favorably reported by committee and placed on the House calendar for a floor vote.

Why is this important

State Referees handle a significant volume of civil disputes affecting everyday Connecticut residents, making their appointment decisions consequential for access to justice. The confirmation process ensures legislative oversight of judicial appointments and allows for public vetting of nominees before they assume judicial responsibilities.

Potential points of contention

  • Limited public information: The resolution provides minimal detail about Shortall's qualifications, experience, or judicial philosophy, making substantive evaluation difficult for legislators and constituents
  • Routine nature obscures accountability: These nominations often pass with little debate, which may limit meaningful legislative scrutiny of judicial candidates
  • No opposition noted in available record: The favorable committee report suggests consensus, though this could reflect either strong credentials or insufficient scrutiny depending on the nomination process rigor

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

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