Wyoming2026Did Not Pass
HJ0006
Election of Judges and Justices
Last scannedOct 10, 2026, 2:19 AM
In one sentence
This resolution proposes changing the Wyoming Constitution to allow electors to vote directly for judges and justices, instead of having them appointed by a governor from a list submitted by a nominating commission.
What it does
- Changes how Supreme Court justices are chosen: Instead of being appointed by the governor, they will be elected by voters.
- Removes the requirement that judges stand for retention votes and replaces it with regular elections.
- Eliminates the judicial nominating commission's role in selecting candidates for judgeships.
- Updates the terms and conditions under which district court judges are elected.
Who it affects
- Judges and justices currently serving or seeking positions in the Wyoming judicial system.
- Voters who will elect judges and justices at general elections.
- The governor, who no longer appoints judges from a list of nominees.
- The judicial nominating commission, which would be dissolved.
Limits and unknowns
- The bill did not pass and was not considered for introduction, so it has no legal effect.
- It is unclear how the change from appointment to election will affect judicial independence or public trust in the judiciary.
Plain language
Terms to know
- Judicial Nominating Commission
- A group that selects and submits three qualified candidates to the governor for appointment as judges or justices.
- Retention Vote
- A vote where voters decide whether a judge should continue in office for another term.
Official record
Sources
Official activity
Bill history
- H Did not Consider for IntroductionHouse
- H Received for IntroductionHouse
- Bill Number AssignedLSO