MO HJR58

Submits to Missouri voters a constitutional amendment to Article V repealing and replacing sections 25(a), 25(d), and 25(e) regarding nonpartisan judicial commissions for judicial appointments.

Increases the number of nominees submitted by judicial commissions from three to five persons for governor consideration when filling vacancies in the Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, circuit courts in St. Louis and Jackson County, and other circuits that opt into the system.

Allows the governor to veto the first list of nominees and request a second list of five new nominees, with the commission making the appointment if the governor fails to appoint within 60 days of the second list submission.

Restructures the Appellate Judicial Commission to consist of seven members elected/appointed from each court of appeals district, and circuit commissions to consist of five members, with gubernatorial appointments subject to Senate confirmation within 30 legislative days.

Establishes four-year terms for commission members, requires openness in proceedings with 72-hour public notice, makes applicant lists public records, and prohibits public officials and political party members from serving on commissions.