The bill, HB40, amends Sections 12-18-10 and 12-18-61 of the Code of Alabama 1975, focusing on the compensation and duties of retired justices and judges when called to active duty. Key insertions include provisions for these retired officials to receive a daily compensation of $780 for a maximum of 50 days per calendar year, along with per diem expenses and mileage equivalent to state employees. Additionally, the bill mandates that retired judges complete a minimum of six hours of approved continuing legal education annually and clarifies that they will not be considered public officials under certain statutes. The process for their appointment requires a request from the presiding circuit judge and certification from the Chief Justice based on the circuit's caseload.

The bill also includes deletions of previous provisions that tied the compensation of retired judges to regular judges' salaries and the conditions for their removal from active duty. It establishes that retired judges may hold office during good behavior and can only be removed for constitutional causes. Furthermore, the Administrative Office of Courts is tasked with creating policies for the nomination and assignment of interim active duty judges. The act is set to take effect on the first day of the third month following its passage and approval by the Governor, aiming to streamline the process for utilizing retired judges while ensuring they meet specific educational and performance standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 12-18-10, 12-18-61
Enrolled: 12-18-10, 12-18-61