Kentucky voters will be asked this November to extend the terms of district judges and commonwealth’s attorneys. If approved, the changes would not be immediate. The legislation calls for district judges’ terms to go from four to eight years beginning in 2022 and commonwealth’s attorneys’ terms moving from six to eight years in 2030.
During senate consideration of the measure this week, Northern Kentucky Senator Chris McDaniel voiced opposition to the bill. “We’re going to come here and put in front of the voters of the Commonwealth this idea of less accountability for constitutional officers, but we’re not going to put in front of the voters of the Commonwealth, more accountability for pardons,” said McDaniel.
McDaniel was referring to another constitutional amendment considered during the just-completed session. It called for prohibiting the Governor's ability to grant pardons or commute sentences beginning 30 days prior to a gubernatorial election and ending at that gubernatorial inauguration.
Grayson Senator Robin Webb said accountability goes beyond the ballot box to a judicial review process. “If you have a judge during that potentially eight year term act egregiously or illegally or un-ethically, there’s a remedy outside of an election,” noted Webb.
Also speaking in favor of the bill was Senate President Robert Stivers who said federal judges are appointed for life.
The measure passed the Senate and House and went directly to the Secretary of State. The Governor doesn’t have the authority to veto a constitutional amendment measure.
People like you value experienced, knowledgeable and award-winning journalism that covers meaningful stories in Central and Eastern Kentucky. To support this locally-produced content, please consider making a contribution.
