Former judges who improperly lobby could be subject to $10,000 fines
Rep. Traci Koster
Lawmakers are poised this year to pass a measure that would implement part of a 2018 constitutional amendment that bars judges and justices from lobbying for six years after leaving the bench.
The measure, PCB PIE 22-02, would implement a portion of Amendment 12, a government ethics measure proposed by the Constitution Revision Commission that voters approved by a 79% margin in 2018. The portion that applies to justices and judges takes effect December 31, 2022.
Originally filed as HB 7003 by Rep. Traci Koster, R-Safety Harbor, the implementing bill passed the House Public Integrity and Elections Committee 16-0 on November 30.
The implementing legislation provides a series of definitions and exemptions, including representation in a judicial proceeding, or responding to a request for information from a legislator, committee, or staff member.
Violations would be investigated by the Commission on Ethics, which would recommend potential penalties to the governor.
Former justices and judges who violate the lobbying ban could face public censure or reprimand, a civil penalty of up to $10,000, and restitution of the “pecuniary benefit of the prohibited lobbying.”
The measure faces hearings before the State Affairs and Judiciary committees before reaching the House floor.
The 60-day legislative session convenes January 11.
