The proposed bill amends the Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska to revise the structure and operation of judicial nominating commissions. Key changes include an increase in the maximum consecutive term for commission members from eight to twelve years, with a stipulation that members who have served more than ten years are ineligible for reelection or reappointment. The bill also clarifies the residency requirements for members, specifying that a change in residency affecting these requirements will impact their status on the commission. Additionally, it introduces provisions for electronic nominations, ensures political party balance among members, and outlines the procedures for filling vacancies and conducting public hearings.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that lawyer members must be active members of the Nebraska bar and registered voters, and it establishes a timeline for public hearings following a vacancy determination. It allows public participation in these hearings and grants the commission the authority to conduct private meetings and independent investigations into candidates' qualifications. The bill also repeals certain existing sections to streamline the process and updates the criteria for commission membership, ultimately aiming to enhance the transparency and efficiency of the judicial selection process in Nebraska.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 24-802, 24-803, 24-805, 24-806, 24-808, 24-809, 24-810, 24-810.01