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. The key changes include a requirement for a more frequent review of retired judges' qualifications by the South Carolina Judicial Merit Selection Commission, which must occur within four years of the judge's appointment, rather than the previous two-year timeframe. Additionally, the bill stipulates that if a judge retired within two years before the end of their current term, no further review is necessary until that term expires.

Furthermore, the bill establishes that after the review process is completed, the Chief Justice can only appoint a retired judge if they receive a majority vote from the members of the General Assembly in a joint session, thereby ensuring a more democratic process in the appointment of retired judges. This act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

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