Tennessee Senate Bill SJR1110

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/24
• Engrossed: 3/7/24
• Enrolled: 3/7/24
• Passed: 3/13/24

Caption

A RESOLUTION to call a joint convention of the Senate and House of Representatives for the purpose of voting on the confirmation of Mary L. Wagner to the Supreme Court of Tennessee pursuant to Article VI, Section 3 of the Constitution of Tennessee and Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 17, Chapter 4.

Impact

The approval of SJR1110 would potentially set a precedent for how judicial confirmations are handled within the state legislature. By formalizing a joint convention for voting on judicial appointments, it reinforces the collaborative aspect of the legislative branch in the confirmation process. This could lead to a more structured and timely confirmation procedure that may affect how future judicial candidates are considered and appointed. It is crucial in maintaining the checks and balances inherent in the state judicial system while ensuring candidate qualifications are thoroughly vetted.

Summary

Senate Joint Resolution 1110 (SJR1110) proposes a joint convention of the Tennessee Senate and House of Representatives to vote on the confirmation of Mary L. Wagner to the Supreme Court of Tennessee. This resolution is in accordance with Article VI, Section 3 of the Tennessee Constitution and the relevant state code which outlines the processes for judicial appointments. The resolution signifies the legislative intent to expedite the confirmation process for judicial candidates, thereby influencing the judicial landscape of the state. Scheduled for March 11, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. CDT, this joint convention will bring together both chambers of the legislature to address a significant judicial appointment.

Contention

While the resolution itself may not evoke widespread controversy, the nomination of Mary L. Wagner could be a point of contention depending on her judicial philosophy and past rulings. Discussions among legislators regarding her qualifications could reveal differing opinions on what constitutes appropriate criteria for judicial appointments. Opposition may arise from those who question her suitability for the role, potentially leading to debates within the joint convention regarding her confirmation. The ramifications of her confirmation or rejection could have a lasting impact on the ideological balance of the Tennessee Supreme Court.