General Assembly Raised Bill No. 7041 proposes significant amendments to the Judicial Selection Commission in Connecticut, focusing on its composition, appointment process, and operational procedures. The bill establishes that until December 31, 2025, the commission will consist of twelve members, equally divided between six attorneys-at-law and six non-attorneys, with a political party limitation of no more than six members from the same party. Starting January 1, 2026, the composition will shift to eight attorneys-at-law and four non-attorneys, with attorney members required to have at least ten years of legal practice in the state. The appointment process will be revised to involve the Governor and legislative leaders, and the bill also clarifies terms of service, reappointment conditions, and the process for filling vacancies.

Additionally, the bill introduces procedural changes for the reappointment and nomination of judges, including a requirement for advance notice of hearings, the ability for judges to request rehearings, and the commission's authority to issue subpoenas. It establishes a ten-year limit for candidates on the qualified list and mandates a summary of reasons for denying recommendations. Voting requirements are adjusted, and confidentiality of investigations is emphasized. The bill also extends the waiting period for attorney members before they can be nominated for judicial positions and modifies the reporting timeline for the commission's chairperson. The legislation aims to enhance the qualifications and transparency of the Judicial Selection Commission, taking effect on July 1, 2025, while removing outdated language related to candidate demographics and qualifications.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 51-44a