Bill

SJR 42

83(R) - 2013
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Civil Justice

Vote Recommendation

Yes
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Positive
  • Neutral

Author(s)

Joan Huffman

Bill Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment relating to the sanctions that may be assessed against a judge or justice following a formal proceeding instituted by the State Commission on Judicial Conduct.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State or local governments is anticipated, other than the cost of publication. The cost to the state for publication of the resolution is $108,921.

Bill Analysis

Summary: SJR 42 would amend the Texas Constitution to authorize the State Commission on Judicial Conduct to issue an order of public admonition, warning, reprimand, or a requirement to obtain additional training or education following a formal hearing. This bill would add a temporary provision to the constitution that establishes the amendment’s effective date as January 1, 2014, and clarifies that the amendment applies only to a formal proceeding.

Analysis: This legislation would lead to greater public accountability for judges and justices, which would serve as a limitation on the judicial branch of government. We support this legislation.