An Act to amend 11.1108 and 11.1400 (5); to create 8.35 (4) (b), subchapter XV of chapter 11 [precedes 11.1500], 20.521 (1) (r), 20.585 (1) (q), 20.585 (1) (r), 20.855 (4) (ba), 20.855 (4) (bb), 25.17 (1) (cm), 25.421 and 71.10 (3) of the statutes; Relating to: public financing of campaigns for the offices of justice of the supreme court, court of appeals judge, and circuit court judge, and making an appropriation. (FE)
Impact
The introduction of public financing for these judicial positions is poised to transform campaign dynamics in Wisconsin. By ensuring that eligible candidates receive substantial financial support, the bill seeks to reduce the influence of big money in judicial elections, fostering a more equitable and competitive electoral landscape. These changes could enhance public trust in the judicial system, enabling candidates from diverse backgrounds to compete on equal footing without heavy financial burdens.
Summary
Senate Bill 1070 aims to establish a public financing program for candidates running for the offices of justice of the supreme court, court of appeals judge, and circuit court judge in Wisconsin. The bill introduces a Democracy Trust Fund funded through voluntary contributions from individual income tax filers, allowing them to designate $5 to support eligible candidates. Candidates can qualify for public financing by securing a specified number of contributions from state electors, thus encouraging grassroots support and minimizing reliance on large donors.
Contention
Opponents of SB1070 may raise concerns about the implications of public financing on other aspects of campaign dynamics. Issues of funding adequacy, the potential for abuse of public funds, and the rigidity imposed on eligible candidates regarding their contributions could become points of contention. Additionally, there may be debates regarding whether public financing can truly eliminate disparities in electoral competitiveness or if it merely redistributes funds. As the bill continues to be discussed, stakeholders will need to address these concerns to ensure an effective implementation.
Crossfiled
An Act to amend 11.1108 and 11.1400 (5); to create 8.35 (4) (b), subchapter XV of chapter 11 [precedes 11.1500], 20.521 (1) (r), 20.585 (1) (q), 20.585 (1) (r), 20.855 (4) (ba), 20.855 (4) (bb), 25.17 (1) (cm), 25.421 and 71.10 (3) of the statutes; Relating to: public financing of campaigns for the offices of justice of the supreme court, court of appeals judge, and circuit court judge, and making an appropriation. (FE)
Public financing of campaigns for the offices of justice of the supreme court, court of appeals judge, and circuit court judge, and making an appropriation. (FE)
An Act to amend and reenact ยงยง 16.1-69.6:1, 17.1-400, 17.1-402, and 17.1-507 of the Code of Virginia, relating to maximum number of judges in each judicial district and circuit; maximum number of judges on the Court of Appeals of Virginia; hearing en banc; study to examine organization and boundaries of certain judicial circuits; report.
Courts: judges; circuit court and district court judgeship to Kalamazoo County; increase. Amends secs. 510 & 8117 of 1961 PA 236 (MCL 600.510 & 600.8117).
Increases statutory mandatory retirement age for Supreme Court Justices, Superior Court Judges, Tax Court Judges, Administrative Law Judges, Workers' Compensation Judges and county prosecutors from 70 to 72.