MI
Michigan House Bill HJRO

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

Michigan House Bill HJRO

Introduced
3/13/24  

Caption

Elections: judicial; incumbency designation for judges; eliminate. Amends sec. 24, art. VI of the state constitution.

Impact

If passed, the amendment would directly alter election procedures for judicial offices by eliminating the incumbent status from the ballot. This could affect public perception of candidates, as incumbency often carries a significant weight in voters' decisions. Proponents of the bill argue that the current system reinforces an imbalance, as incumbents may benefit from name recognition and perceived credibility, which can overshadow the qualifications of challengers. Thus, HJRO is seen as a step toward promoting fairness and equality in judicial elections.

Summary

House Joint Resolution O (HJRO) proposes an amendment to the Michigan state constitution aimed at changing the way judicial candidates are presented on ballots. The resolution seeks to eliminate the incumbent designation for judges and justices when they run for nomination or election to the same office. By removing this label, the bill aims to create a more level playing field during elections, allowing voters to judge candidates solely on their merits rather than their incumbency status. This change is intended to enhance voter decision-making and potentially improve the electoral process within the judiciary.

Contention

Despite its intentions, the bill is not without dissent. Critics argue that removing the incumbent designation could obscure essential information from voters, making it more difficult to assess the qualifications and experiences of judicial candidates effectively. Some opponents worry that this lack of information may lead to confusion among voters, particularly in down-ballot races where judicial positions may not receive as much public scrutiny. Furthermore, there are concerns about the implications this could have on the overall accountability of judges and justices, as the current system allows voters to easily identify incumbents seeking re-election.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MI HB5565

Elections: judicial; incumbency designation for judges; eliminate. Amends secs. 409b, 409l, 424, 424a, 433, 444, 467b, 467c, 467m, 561 & 696 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.409b et seq.) & repeals sec. 435a of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.435a).

MI HJRG

Constitutional amendments: state; state board of education; eliminate. Amends secs. 3 & 7, art. VIII of the state constitution.

MI HJRD

Constitutional amendments: state; state board of education; eliminate. Amends secs. 3 & 7, art. VIII to the state constitution.

MI HJRP

Constitutional amendments: state; deadline for filing petitions to amend the state constitution; revise. Amends sec. 2, art. XII of the state constitution.

MI ACA8

Elections: incumbent judges of the Supreme Court and courts of appeal.

MI SJR1

Proposes to amend the Nevada Constitution to revise provisions relating to elections involving incumbent justices or judges who are unopposed. (BDR C-515)

MI SJR2

Proposes to amend the Nevada Constitution to revise provisions relating to elections involving incumbent justices or judges who are unopposed. (BDR C-26)

MI ACR63

Proposes temporary constitutional amendment to provide for State constitutional convention to reduce government spending and to reform system of property taxation.

MI ACR100

Proposes temporary constitutional amendment to provide for State constitutional convention to reduce government spending and to reform system of property taxation.

MI ACR56

Proposes constitutional amendment to eliminate judicial review of arbitration rulings in disputes between Judiciary and county concerning court facilities.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.