This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for evaluating the performance of judicial officers in Oklahoma. It mandates the Supreme Court to create the Judicial Performance Evaluation Council (JPEC) and the Office of Judicial Performance Evaluation (OJPE) within the Administrative Office of the Courts. The primary objectives of this evaluation process include providing information on judicial performance, assisting judges in improving their performance, identifying necessary educational programs, and promoting public accountability while safeguarding judicial independence. The Supreme Court is tasked with appointing a director for the OJPE, hiring staff, and potentially engaging outside vendors to support the evaluation process.
The bill outlines specific procedures for the evaluation, including the adoption of performance standards and the administration of surveys to gather feedback on judges' performance. Confidentiality of survey responses is emphasized, with exceptions for cases where judges fail to meet evaluation standards. Additionally, the Supreme Court is required to prepare and distribute an annual report detailing the evaluation outcomes and actions taken to address any deficiencies. This report will be made publicly available on the Supreme Court's website, ensuring transparency in the judicial evaluation process. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.