An Act to create 757.023 of the statutes; Relating to: setting a maximum age for serving as a supreme court justice or judge of a court of record.
Impact
If enacted, SB627 would amend the current statutes, establishing a statutory maximum age for judicial positions, which could significantly shape the makeup of the judiciary in Wisconsin. The intent behind this change is to ensure a certain level of vitality and contemporary relevance among judges serving in high courts. Proponents argue that younger justices may bring fresher perspectives to the bench and reflect the changing societal norms and technologies affecting legal interpretations and rulings.
Summary
Senate Bill 627, introduced by Senator Tomczyk, proposes to set a maximum age for individuals serving as supreme court justices or judges of courts of record. Specifically, the bill stipulates that no person may be elected or appointed to serve in these roles if they are aged 75 years or older at the time of election or appointment. Exceptions are made for temporary reserve judges, who may still be appointed regardless of age. This legislative proposal is grounded in Article VII, section 24(2) of the Wisconsin Constitution, which allows the legislature to impose such age limits.
Contention
The primary point of contention surrounding SB627 involves the principles of age discrimination and the value of experience versus age in judicial contexts. Critics may argue that imposing such a restriction could eliminate qualified candidates who possess extensive judicial experience solely based on their age, thus undermining the value of seasoned justice in the legal system. Additionally, concerns may also arise regarding the rights of older individuals to serve in public office, particularly when their capabilities and contributions could still be significant to the judiciary. As discussions progress, these opposing views could fuel a robust debate concerning the criteria for judicial qualifications.
Crossfiled
An Act to create 757.023 of the statutes; Relating to: setting a maximum age for serving as a supreme court justice or judge of a court of record.
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.
Increases statutory mandatory retirement age for Supreme Court Justices, Superior Court Judges, Tax Court Judges, Administrative Law Judges, and Workers' Compensation Judges from 70 to 75.
AN ACT relating to courts; amending requirements for the assignment of retired judges and justices to active cases; specifying limitations on the assignment of retired justices and judges to service; specifying duties of the Wyoming supreme court; requiring the use of three (3) judge panels for district courts to resolve the constitutionality of statutes and session laws as specified; making conforming amendments; specifying applicability; and providing for an effective date.
The salaries of justices of the supreme court and salaries of district court judges; to provide for transfers; to provide for a report; and to provide an exemption.
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)