MD SB954

Circuit court judge vacancies would be filled by gubernatorial appointment with Senate confirmation by majority vote, replacing the current system of voter elections for these positions

Judges confirmed with 80% or more Senate support receive automatic 15-year terms; those confirmed with less than 80% support must face a contested election at the next general election after serving one year

Candidates challenging appointed judges in contested elections must be deemed qualified by the appropriate Judicial Nominating Commission

Judges may be reappointed by the Governor for additional 15-year terms without Senate confirmation, but all judges must retire at age 70

The constitutional amendment would appear on the November 2026 general election ballot for voter approval, with transitional provisions allowing current elected judges to complete their terms