HB543 Summary

• Requires justices and judges to recuse themselves from civil cases if a substantial campaign contribution from a party to the case creates a reasonable perception of bias or serious objective probability of actual bias.

• Creates a rebuttable presumption that judges must recuse when direct campaign contributions from a party exceed: 10% of total contributions in statewide appellate court races, 15% in circuit court races, or 25% in district court races.

• Defines "party" to include the litigant and immediate family, any 5% or greater business owner, corporate affiliates or subsidiaries, the party's attorneys, and lawyers in practice with the party's attorney.

• Makes orders denying recusal motions appealable as final orders within 30 days, with trial court proceedings automatically stayed if the contribution threshold is met during the appeal.

• Repeals Sections 12-24-1 and 12-24-2 of the Code of Alabama 1975 and becomes effective the first day of the third month following passage.