HB 808 amends O.C.G.A. Title 15, Chapter 1, relating to the creation, powers, and composition of a new Judicial Qualifications Commission.

       Section 1 creates in statute a Judicial Qualifications Commission and vests the Commission with the power to discipline, remove, and cause the involuntary retirement of judges. It creates the composition of the Commission, which shall consist of seven members, each of whom shall be subject to three year terms and confirmation by the Senate. Members are appointed as follows: two judges selected by the Supreme Court; two active members of the state bar and registered voters of Georgia, appointed by the board of governors; one citizen, who is not a member of the state bar, appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives; one citizen, who is not a member of the State Bar, appointed by the President of the Senate; and one member of the State Bar, appointed by the Governor, to serve as chairperson. No person shall serve more than two consecutive terms as a member of the commission. All papers filed with and proceedings of the commission shall be confidential, unless otherwise waived. Information submitted to the commission shall be absolutely privileged and not allowed as evidence for any civil action. A respondent who is recommended for public reprimand, censure, suspension, retirement, or removal shall be entitled to a copy of the proposed record to be filed with the Supreme Court and be entitled to present a brief and to argue the respondent's case, in person and through counsel, to the Supreme Court.

      This Act shall become effective January 1, 2017 following ratification by the votes in the November, 2016 election. If the amendment is not ratified, this Act shall be repealed January 1, 2017.