Alaska2026Passed Legislature

SB25

SB25: Rules for Judicial Retention Election Information

Last scannedSep 12, 2026, 4:46 AM

In one sentence

This bill updates the rules about what information judges and justices can share with voters, as well as what reports the Judicial Council must file before a retention election.

Allows judges to submit up to 300 words of personal information, including photos, residency details, military service, professional activities, and other supporting materials.
Removes the requirement for judges to include a specific statement advocating for their own re-election in their submitted materials.
Requires the Judicial Council to file detailed reports on each judge facing retention by August 7 before an election year.
Sets word limits of fewer than 1,200 words total for the statements filed by the Judicial Council about judges and justices.
Updates the list of required information in council reports to include a self-assessment by the judge on their performance.

The bill text does not state the specific date this law will take effect.
The exact content of future council evaluations depends on information available at election time, such as whether a judge is running for retention for the first time.

Plain language

Retention election: A vote where the public decides if a judge should keep their job.
Judicial Council: The group that evaluates judges and prepares reports about them for voters.

Official record

Validated

JUDICIAL RETENTION ELECTION INFORMATION An Act relating to information on judicial officers seeking retention in office.

Official activity