HB448 Summary

• Proposes constitutional amendment to establish the Nineteenth Judicial Circuit Judicial Commission to nominate candidates to the Governor for filling vacancies in circuit judge and district attorney offices.

• Creates five-member commission consisting of the Presiding Circuit Judge (non-voting except ties), District Attorney or representative, and presidents of each local bar association or representatives, all residing within circuit jurisdiction.

• Commission must submit list of up to three qualified nominees within 30 days of vacancy; Governor has 30 days to appoint or request new list; Chief Justice of Alabama Supreme Court makes appointment if Governor fails to act within deadline.

• Establishes three county-level commissions (Autauga, Chilton, Elmore) to nominate candidates for district court judge vacancies to the Governor and circuit clerk vacancies to the presiding judge.

• Amendment requires voter approval by majority in accordance with Sections 284, 285, and 287 of Alabama Constitution of 1901 and state election laws.