West Virginia 2023 Regular Session

West Virginia House Bill HR6

Introduced

1/23/23

Refer

1/23/23

Caption

Empowering the House Committee on the Judiciary to investigate allegations of impeachable offenses against a Judge of the Family Court

Impact

If enacted, HR6 would facilitate a formal inquiry into the conduct of Judge Goldston and could lead to impeachment proceedings if the committee finds sufficient evidence of misconduct. The implications of such actions extend to the standards and expectations set for judges in family court settings. This proposal reflects a significant moment in the state’s legal landscape, as it directly addresses concerns over judicial conduct and the safeguarding of litigants' rights during court proceedings, potentially leading to revisions in state laws regarding judicial oversight and accountability.

Summary

House Resolution 6 (HR6) seeks to empower the House Committee on the Judiciary to investigate allegations of impeachable offenses against Louise E. Goldston, a Judge of the Family Court of the 13th Circuit. The resolution outlines specific accusations against Judge Goldston, including improper practices such as visiting the homes of litigants during court cases and potentially engaging in activities that compromise her role as a neutral arbiter. The intent of the bill is to ensure judicial accountability and uphold the integrity of the judicial system in West Virginia.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HR6 appears to be cautiously supportive among legislators who prioritize judicial accountability. Many legislators express the position that the judiciary should be held to high ethical standards. However, there may also be concerns regarding the motivations and implications of the investigation, with opponents arguing that it could set a troubling precedent for judicial independence and may be politically motivated. The potential for divisive opinions on the matter underscores the delicate balance between oversight and interference in judicial matters.

Contention

The primary contention revolves around the nature of Judge Goldston's alleged actions and whether they constitute grounds for impeachment. Supporters of HR6 argue that the risks posed by her conduct could undermine the public’s trust in the judicial system, while detractors caution against hasty action that could be viewed as politically charged. The resolution also raises questions about the legislative branch's authority to question and potentially overturn judicial decisions and actions, setting up a broader debate about the separation of powers and the respective roles of each branch of government.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WV HR44

Appointing and empowering the Judiciary Committee to conduct an investigation.

WV HR106

Appointing and empowering a committee to investigate the conduct of the Honorable Steven D. Stambaugh, Court of Common Pleas Judge for the 19th District of York County.

WV HR12

Establishing a Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government as a select investigative subcommittee of the Committee on the Judiciary.

WV HR14

A resolution to urge the investigation of due process in family court cases.

WV SR5

Senate Special Committee on Investigations; reauthorizing

WV HB3402

Requiring annual report to the Joint Standing Committee on the Judiciary regarding statements of charges brought against a judge of this state

WV HB4858

Requiring annual report to the Joint Standing Committee on the Judiciary regarding statements of charges brought against a judge of this state

WV HR918

Directing certain committees to continue their ongoing investigations as part of the existing House of Representatives inquiry into whether sufficient grounds exist for the House of Representatives to exercise its Constitutional power to impeach Joseph Biden, President of the United States of America, and for other purposes.

WV HR1608

Directing the Committee on Ethics of the House of Representatives to release to the public the committee's report on its investigation into allegations against former Representative Matt Gaetz.

WV SB1369

Dental board; investigation committees; delegation

Similar Bills

MI HB4326

Campaign finance: contributions and expenditures; provision related to officeholders raising funds when facing a recall; modify, and require candidate to establish a separate account used for recall purposes. Amends secs. 3, 11, 12, 21, 24 & 52 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.203 et seq.) & adds sec. 21b.

MI HB4870

Campaign finance: contributions and expenditures; funds donated to a candidate for recall efforts; require candidate to establish a separate account used for recall purposes. Amends secs. 3, 11, 12, 21, 24 & 52 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.203 et seq.) & adds sec. 21b.

NJ AR96

Changes membership of Budget and Labor Committees; clarifies that bill or resolution may be listed on committee agenda for purposes of amendment.

MN HC6

A concurrent resolution recognizing wild rice as sacred and central to the culture and health of Indigenous Peoples in Minnesota and critical to the health and identity of all Minnesota citizens and ecosystems and establishing a commitment to passing legislation to protect wild rice and the freshwater resources upon which it depends.