CT
Connecticut House Bill HJ00047

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

Connecticut House Bill HJ00047

Introduced
1/27/21  
Introduced
1/27/21  
Refer
1/27/21  

Caption

Resolution Proposing A State Constitutional Amendment Decreasing The Terms Of Judges.

Impact

The proposed amendment carries significant implications for the state's judicial system. By shortening the terms of judges, it potentially increases the frequency of appointments, thereby allowing the governor more opportunities to influence the judiciary. Supporters of the bill argue that this change may lead to a more responsive and accountable judiciary, as judges would be subject to appointments more often and could adapt to evolving legal standards and public sentiments. However, this increase in turnover may also lead to inconsistency in judicial interpretations and a lack of continuity in the legal system.

Summary

House Joint Resolution No. 47 (HJ00047) proposes an amendment to the state Constitution aimed at decreasing the terms of judges serving on the Supreme Court, Appellate Court, and Superior Court from eight years to six years. This resolution was introduced with the intention of addressing concerns about the length of judicial appointments and enhancing accountability among judges within the state. The amendment would only apply to newly appointed or reappointed judges following its passage, thereby instituting a shorter tenure for future judges.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HJ00047 reflect a divide between those advocating for judicial accountability and those warning against destabilizing the judiciary. Proponents may view shorter terms as a means to reflect changing societal norms through a judiciary that is more aligned with the electorate's values. Opponents, however, argue that frequent changes in judicial appointments could hinder the development of legal expertise and institutional knowledge among judges, leading to potential disruptions in legal proceedings and outcomes. The resolution has sparked debate about the balance between accountability and stability within the judicial system.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT SJ00004

Resolution Proposing A State Constitutional Amendment Concerning Discrimination On The Basis Of Sex Under The Equal Protection Clause.

CT SJ00193

Resolution Proposing An Amendment To The State Constitution Regarding Environmental Rights.

CT HJ00171

Resolution Proposing An Amendment To The State Constitution To Revise Requirements Relating To The Offering Of Bail Or Pretrial Release To Persons Accused Of A Crime.

CT HJ00216

Resolution Proposing A State Constitutional Amendment To Allow Individuals Who Have Attained The Age Of Sixteen To Apply For Admission As Electors And To Be So Admitted Upon Attaining The Age Of Eighteen.

CT HJ00230

Resolution Memorializing Congress To Rescind Previous Applications Of The General Assembly Calling For An Article V Convention To Propose Amendments To The Constitution Of The United States.

CT HJ00217

Resolution Ratifying The Proposed Amendment To The Constitution Of The United States Permitting Congress To Regulate Child Labor.

CT SJ00197

Resolution Confirming The Nomination Of Nicole J. Tung, Esquire, Of Cheshire To Be A Judge Of The Superior Court.

CT HJ00017

Resolution Confirming The Nomination Of The Honorable Dawne G. Westbrook Of Glastonbury To Be A Judge Of The Appellate Court And A Judge Of The Superior Court.

CT SJ00203

Resolution Confirming The Nomination Of Kristin A. Connors, Esquire, Of Newtown To Be A Judge Of The Superior Court.

CT SJ00196

Resolution Confirming The Nomination Of Alayna M. Stone, Esquire, Of New Haven To Be A Judge Of The Superior Court.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.