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, with specific qualifications for each appointee, including a requirement for ten years of legal experience for members selected from the South Carolina Bar.

Additionally, the bill stipulates eligibility criteria for commission members, disallowing individuals who have contributed to a campaign of the appointing authority or served in the General Assembly within the past five years from being appointed. It also specifies that no active practicing attorney who is a member of the General Assembly can serve on the commission. Members will serve two-year terms with a limit of two consecutive terms, and initial appointments will include staggered terms of one year for certain members to ensure continuity. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

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