The bill amends existing laws regarding the information that judicial officers seeking retention in office must provide. Specifically, it establishes that by August 7 of the election year, justices and judges may submit up to 300 words of information, which includes a photograph, details about their residency and military service, professional activities, and any additional information they wish to share to support their candidacy. This replaces the previous requirement that only allowed for a statement advocating their candidacy.

Additionally, the bill modifies the requirements for the judicial council to file a statement with the lieutenant governor regarding each judicial officer subject to a retention election. The new provisions require the statement to include evaluations of the judges, with specific details such as a self-assessment of judicial performance, descriptions of their education and business experience, and any public disciplinary proceedings. The previous requirement for a brief statement on public reprimands or censure has been removed, allowing for a more comprehensive evaluation of each judge's qualifications and performance.

Statutes affected:
SB0025A, AM SB 25, introduced 01/10/2025: 15.58.030, 15.58.050