Maryland 2022 Regular Session

Maryland Senate Bill SB69

Introduced

1/12/22

Refer

1/12/22

Caption

Courts - Standing Committee on Rules of Practice and Procedure

Impact

The enactment of SB69 would significantly influence the operational dynamics of the Standing Committee on Rules of Practice and Procedure. By mandating equal representation from different practice areas, the bill aims to ensure that decisions made by the committee reflect a broader spectrum of legal perspectives. Additionally, the provisions regarding public disclosure of interests and the grounds for removal serve to reinforce accountability among committee members, thereby promoting transparency in judicial proceedings. This could lead to more equitable and fair practices within the Maryland judiciary system.

Summary

Senate Bill 69, introduced by Senator Sydnor, aims to modify the structure and governance of the Standing Committee on Rules of Practice and Procedure of the Court of Appeals in Maryland. Key changes proposed by the bill include provisions regarding the removal of committee members, ensuring balanced representation from various legal practice areas, and establishing guidelines for compensation and disclosure of conflicts of interest. These adjustments reflect a commitment to enhancing the integrity and function of the committee, which plays a significant role in shaping judicial practices within the state.

Contention

Notably, the bill addresses potential concerns regarding conflicts of interest by requiring committee members to disclose personal or professional interests that may affect their judgment. The requirement for recusal in cases of actual or perceived conflict is positioned to fortify the integrity of the committee's work. However, discussions around the bill may also reveal apprehensions regarding the balance of power in committee decisions and the implications of the removal provisions, which some may argue could be subject to misuse, threatening the independence of committee members.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MD SR3

Modifies Senate Rules 6, 25, and 28 relating to standing committees of the Senate

MD SR19

Modifies Senate Rules 25 and 28 regarding standing committees of the Senate

MD AB890

Nurse practitioners: scope of practice: practice without standardized procedures.

MD SB928

Administrative rules; creating Joint Committee on Administrative Rules; procedures; approval and disapproval. Effective date.

MD HR141

Committee on Ethics Rules of Procedure

MD HR85

Committee on Ethics Rules of Procedure

MD HB5060

Relating to the operation and administration of and practices and procedures related to proceedings in the judicial branch of state government.

MD SB2816

Practice of medicine; revise definition, licensure procedures and disciplinary procedures under the Medical Practice Act.

MD SR359

Proposing a special rule of practice and procedure in the Senate when sitting on the refusal to comply with a subpoena issued by a Senate standing committee.

MD SB2342

Relating to the jurisdiction of, and practices and procedures in civil cases before, justice courts, county courts, statutory county courts, and district courts.

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