ID S1324

Persons appointed by the governor to fill vacancies on the Court of Appeals, Supreme Court, or district courts are prohibited from running for election to that same seat in the next election following their appointment.

Candidates for Court of Appeals judge and Supreme Court justice must be at least 30 years old, a U.S. citizen, an Idaho elector, a 2-year Idaho resident, in good standing with the Idaho State Bar for 2 years, and have held a law license or judicial office for at least 10 continuous years.

District judge candidates must be an elector in their judicial district for at least 1 continuous year immediately preceding election or appointment, in addition to meeting the same age, citizenship, residency, bar membership, and legal experience requirements.

The bill adds statutory definitions for key terms including "active," "judicial," "good standing," "jurisdiction" (states, territories, D.C., or U.S. military branches), and "elector" (lawfully registered voter).

Declared an emergency measure, effective July 1, 2026.