HI HB1216

Requires state justices and judges to be elected by qualified voters at general elections, as provided by law, replacing the current appointment system.

Authorizes the governor to make interim appointments to fill vacancies in the offices of chief justice, supreme court, intermediate appellate court, and circuit courts within 30 days if vacancy occurs no later than six months before the next general election.

Authorizes the chief justice to make interim appointments to fill vacancies in district courts within 30 days if vacancy occurs no later than six months before the next general election; interim appointees serve until the next general election.

Repeals Article VI, Section 4 of the Hawaii Constitution, eliminating all provisions pertaining to the judicial selection commission.

Submits the proposed amendments to voters as a constitutional question requiring approval before implementation, contingent on enactment of supporting statutory law.