This bill amends several sections of the Idaho Code to revise candidate qualifications for the offices of Court of Appeals Judge, Supreme Court Justice, and District Judge. Key changes include the introduction of a provision that prohibits individuals appointed by the governor to fill a vacancy from being eligible to run for election to that same seat in the next election. Additionally, the qualifications for candidates have been clarified, including requirements for residency and legal standing within the Idaho State Bar.

The bill also specifies that candidates for these judicial positions must file a declaration of candidacy and pay a filing fee, which varies by position. For District Judges, the requirement for being an elector has been adjusted to specify that candidates must be electors in the judicial district where they are running. The bill declares an emergency, making it effective on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 1-2404, 34-615, 34-616