Senate Says Rick Scott Can't Replace Crist’s Judicial Nominators

All Florida governors will be allowed to name the majority of those who appoint judges upon taking office. But Gov. Rick Scott wouldnt be allowed to remove those appointed by former Gov. Charlie Crist until their current terms expire.

In a close vote Wednesday, the Senate advanced SB 1570, which alters the terms of the five appointments by the governor to the nine-member Judicial Nominating Commission from staggered terms to at the pleasure of the governor."

However, the bill includes an amendment that declares the law, if eventually signed by Scott, to only apply to anyone appointed after Jan. 4, 2011, when Scott was inaugurated.

This is a compromise position, but it is a fair position, said Sen. David Simmons, R-Altamonte Springs, who sponsored the amendment. The only issue were having is when can the governor make the appointment.

The Florida Bar, which appoints the other four members to four-year staggered terms, sought the amendment.

Democrats opposed the measure, noting that while the rule would allow a Democrat if elected governor to make the same selections, the bill would put too much politics into the nomination of judges.

This gives too much power to a governor who says he wants people who thought like him and this, its exactly what we should not allow, said Sen. Arthenia L. Joyner, D-Tampa.

The bill also allows retired judges to serve in temporary appointed roles without affecting their pension in the Florida Retirement System.