The bill S. 622 proposes amendments to Section 2-19-100 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which governs the eligibility of retired judges for appointment by the Chief Justice. The key change involves a more frequent review of retired judges' qualifications, requiring that they be reviewed by the South Carolina Judicial Merit Selection Commission within four years of their appointment, rather than the previous two years. Additionally, the bill stipulates that if a judge retired within two years before the expiration of their current term, no further review is necessary until that term would have ended.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a requirement for a retention election, ensuring that retired judges must receive a majority vote from the General Assembly members in a joint session to be approved for appointment. This amendment aims to enhance the oversight and accountability of retired judges serving in judicial roles, thereby ensuring that only qualified individuals are appointed. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
04/29/2025: 2-19-100
Latest Version: 2-19-100