Texas Senate Bill SB109

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

• Filed: 11/14/16

Caption

Relating to the establishment of a limit on the number of terms a judge or justice may serve on a court in this state.

Impact

If enacted, SB109 would lead to significant changes in how long judges and justices can serve on individual courts in Texas. The implications of these term limits could manifest in a rotation of judicial perspectives, potentially impacting case law, legal precedents, and overall access to justice. Opponents may argue that such limits could disrupt the continuity necessary for effective judicial processes, while proponents could contend that they will reinvigorate the judiciary and diminish the probability of entrenched interests within the courts.

Summary

SB109 proposes to establish a limit on the number of terms that judges and justices can serve in Texas courts, aiming to promote judicial accountability and fresh perspectives within the legal system. The bill mandates that the Supreme Court, in consultation with the Court of Criminal Appeals, will create rules to enforce these term limits, which cannot exceed 18 years for a single court. This proposal aligns with ongoing discussions regarding judicial reform in Texas and signifies a shift towards ensuring that judicial positions are not held indefinitely by the same individuals.

Contention

The primary points of contention regarding SB109 center around the balance between maintaining judicial experience and enhancing accountability. Critics of term limits might express concerns over the loss of seasoned judges who bring years of expertise to their roles, while supporters argue that rotating judges can prevent legal stagnation and promote a diversity of thought and fairness in the judicial system. Additionally, the bill is contingent upon a constitutional amendment previously proposed, underscoring the intertwined nature of legislative reforms and public approval processes in Texas.