judgesonmerit.org

How to Move to Merit Selection in Pennsylvania

Changing from an elective system to a merit selection system for judges requires a constitutional amendment. This is a lengthy process, which requires both action by the legislature and approval by the public.

Step 1 — First passage by the state legislature
The state legislature must pass a bill to amend the constitution in two consecutive legislative sessions. Each legislative session runs for two years. We are currently in the middle of the 2007-08 session. To comply with guidelines requiring publication of proposed constitutional amendments, passage must occur by the summer recess this year.

Step 2 - Second passage by the state legislature
If first passage of a constitutional amendment passes by mid- 2008, second passage must occur during the next legislative session, which runs from January 2009 through December 2010.

Step 3 - Public Referendum
Following second passage in the legislature and second publication of the proposed amendment, a public referendum, yes/no vote on amending the constitution must be held. The timing of this referendum depends on when second passage occurs. The earliest a public referendum could be held is 2009.

Only the people of Pennsylvania can determine whether we amend the constitution to move to merit selection. Only a majority yes vote in the referendum will result in an amendment to the constitution.

 If you support merit selection in Pennsylvania, please complete and return the Supporter Form.

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