The bill H. 4516 proposes amendments to Section 2-19-5 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which governs the South Carolina Judicial Merit Selection Commission. The key change involves reducing the commission's membership from twelve to ten members. The new composition will include four members appointed by the Speaker of the House, four by the Senate, and four by the Governor, all of whom must have at least ten years of legal experience and be in good standing with the South Carolina Bar. Additionally, the bill specifies that no person is eligible for appointment if they contributed to a campaign of the Governor in the most recent election or served in the General Assembly within the last five years.

The bill also outlines eligibility criteria for commission members, stating that no member of the General Assembly can be an active practicing attorney. Members will serve two-year terms with a limit of two consecutive terms, and specific initial appointments will be made for one-year terms that can be followed by reappointment. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
05/06/2025: 2-19-5
Latest Version: 2-19-5