AK SB129

Changes the deadline language in AS 15.58.030(g) from "NO later than" to "Not later than" and allows judicial officers seeking retention to file information not exceeding 300 words with the lieutenant governor.

Permits judges to include a photograph, residency information, military service, professional activities, and any additional information to support their candidacy, removing the requirement for a statement advocating their retention.

Amends AS 15.58.050 to require the judicial council to file evaluation statements for judges subject to retention elections by August 7 of the election year, in fewer than 1,200 words total.

For superior court and district court judges, mandates inclusion of professional philosophy statements (150 words), education and business experience, service organization affiliations, ratings by law enforcement and attorneys, appellate court review statistics, and disciplinary proceedings.

For judges standing for retention for the first time, requires disclosure of previous political and governmental positions held, primary practice areas before appointment with percentage spent as trial lawyer, and types of clients represented.