Connecticut House Bill HJ00063

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/19
• Refer: 1/30/19

Caption

Resolution Proposing An Amendment To The State Constitution To Permit The General Assembly Additional Time To Review And Consider Certain Judicial Nominations From The Governor.

Impact

The proposed amendment is poised to influence the process of judicial nominations significantly. Currently, the General Assembly has a finite duration during which to confer upon nominations from the Governor. This amendment seeks to alleviate the time constraints that could lead to rushed decisions, thereby enhancing the quality of judicial appointments. By allowing additional time, the amendment could contribute to more informed and deliberate voting outcomes, impacting the judicial landscape of the state.

Summary

HJ00063 is a proposed amendment to the state constitution that aims to grant the General Assembly additional time to examine and consider certain judicial nominations put forth by the Governor. Specifically, if a judge's eight-year term is approaching expiration during a regular session of the General Assembly, the amendment allows for an extension of that term by up to thirty days. This proposal acknowledges the necessity for careful and thorough evaluation of judicial appointments, ensuring that the Assembly has adequate time to deliberate on such critical nominations.

Contention

In discussions surrounding HJ00063, potential points of contention could arise regarding the balance of power between the executive branch and the legislature. Supporters of the amendment may argue that extended review times ensure better oversight and accountability in the nomination process. However, opponents could raise concerns about potential political maneuvering and the implications of extending a judge's term so close to its expiration, fearing it might lead to unintended consequences for judicial independence.