The bill amends existing laws regarding the information that judicial officers seeking retention in office must provide. Specifically, it requires justices and judges to submit a variety of information to the lieutenant governor by August 7 of the election year, including a photograph, residency details, military service, professional activities, and any additional information they wish to include to support their candidacy. The total submission is limited to 300 words.

Additionally, the bill modifies the requirements for the judicial council to file a statement with the lieutenant governor that includes evaluations of each justice or judge subject to a retention election. This statement must now reflect the council's evaluation and include specific details about the judges' professional philosophies, education, business experience, affiliations, performance ratings, and any public disciplinary actions. The total word count for this statement is capped at 1,200 words, with various subsections detailing the information required for different types of judges. Notably, the previous requirement for a statement regarding public reprimands or censure has been removed.

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