Relating to the discipline of judges by the State Commission on Judicial Conduct, notice of certain reprimands, judicial compensation and related retirement benefits, and the reporting of certain judicial transparency information; authorizing an administrative penalty.
What changed between versions
Added a new definition for 'official misconduct' referencing Article 3.04 of the Code of Criminal Procedure to clarify disciplinary grounds.
Extended investigation timelines from 90 to 120 days for some complaints and added a 240-day maximum extension period for complex cases.
Requires commission staff to provide written notice to judges before commencing full investigations and to notify judges of investigation commencement within seven business days.
Mandates quarterly reporting to the Office of Court Administration on complaint investigation compliance and annual public reporting on court compliance.
Allows written notice to judges via email through the establishment of a judicial directory containing contact information.
Requires district court judges to submit biannual reports on hours spent on judicial duties, including case-related work, administrative tasks, and continuing education.
Added notification requirements for public reprimands sent to governors, legislators, and judicial officials to improve accountability.