MN HF3643

Requires merit selection for all justices and judges in Minnesota, with vacancies filled by the governor from nominees submitted by the Commission on Judicial Selection, effective July 1, 2011.

Establishes the Commission on Judicial Selection with seven at-large members appointed by the governor, two members appointed by Supreme Court justices, and two district members from each judicial district, with restrictions on attorney appointments and residency requirements.

Requires the commission to submit three to five nominees within 60 days of a judicial vacancy; the governor must appoint from the submitted nominees or may direct the commission to submit five additional nominees, with authority to appoint any qualified individual if the commission fails to timely submit nominees.

Restricts district commission members' participation in meetings to only those considering applicants for vacancies in their own judicial districts.

Allows removal of commission members for cause, after notice and hearing, or after missing three consecutive meetings, with protections for members unable to participate due to subdivision restrictions.