This bill amends Section 3-1-1115 of the Montana Code Annotated to allow the Speaker of the House of Representatives to appoint individuals to fill not only current vacancies but also anticipated vacancies on the Judicial Standards Commission. Specifically, the new language states that when a vacancy occurs or is anticipated due to the expiration of a term, the Speaker must notify district court judges, who will then provide a list of willing candidates to the nomination panel. The panel will review the qualifications of these judges and forward at least three names to the Speaker for selection.

Additionally, the bill maintains the existing structure of the legislative nomination panel, which consists of members from the House of Representatives, including at least one member from the minority party. The panel is responsible for making recommendations to the Speaker regarding appointments to the Judicial Standards Commission. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 3-1-1115
HB0431_1(1): 3-1-1115
HB0431_1(2): 3-1-1115
HB0431_1(3): 3-1-1115
HB0431_1(4): 3-1-1115
HB0431_1: 3-1-1115
HB0431_2: 3-1-1115
HB0431_X(1): 3-1-1115
HB0431_X(2): 3-1-1115
HB0431_X(3): 3-1-1115
HB0431_X(4): 3-1-1115
HB0431_X(5): 3-1-1115
HB0431_X(6): 3-1-1115
HB0431_X(7): 3-1-1115
HB0431_X: 3-1-1115