North Carolina Governor Blocks Bill Allowing Unpaid Suspension of Judges

Governor Josh Stein vetoed a bill that sought to let North Carolina's Supreme Court suspend trial judges without pay, sidestepping the Judicial Standards Commission's recommendation process. Under the proposal, the chief justice could issue reprimands, censures, suspensions or removals based on perceived risks to the public or the administration of justice. Stein argued the change would erode judicial independence and give the chief justice powers not held by any other state.

The Republican-majority General Assembly passed the measure in early August, and an unaffiliated representative's support gave the GOP enough votes to potentially override the veto, though the legislature will not meet again until after the November election. Stein also vetoed a separate elections bill that would reduce early voting days and expand auditor Dave Boliek's oversight powers, a move criticized by Democrats. The governor continues legal challenges over recent limits on his authority to fill judicial vacancies.