State Representative Charles Meier (IL) | Representative Charles Meier (R) 109th District
State Representative Charles Meier (IL) | Representative Charles Meier (R) 109th District
State Representative Charlie Meier of Okawville has introduced a bill aimed at closing a loophole in the judicial retention process. The legislation, House Bill 1127, seeks to ensure that judges adhere to the Illinois Constitution's requirement of securing 60 percent of the vote for retention.
The current situation allows judges who anticipate not meeting this threshold to resign and then run for election for the same position, needing only 50 percent of the vote to maintain their seat. Rep. Meier's proposed bill would eliminate this practice.
"Judges hold some of the most important elected positions in our democracy," stated Rep. Meier. "Our Illinois Constitution is clear: incumbent judges should amass 60 percent of the vote to be retained. Incumbent judges should stand for retention and not circumvent the Constitution by resigning and running again."
The issue is notably prevalent in St. Clair County, where several judges have utilized this method due to concerns over not being retained.
"Judges should be held to the highest of standards," Rep. Meier added. "When they try to game the system, people lose trust in our justice system. It’s got to stop."
Rep. Meier represents Illinois' 109th District, covering parts of Bond, Clinton, Madison, St. Clair, and Washington counties.
Alerts Sign-up