Only 9 states pass new judicial recusal rules in two years after Caperton

Network partners Justice at Stake and the Brennan Center for Justice have issued a press release (via Justice at Stake) stating that two years after the Supreme Court decision in Caperton v. Massey, only nine states have adopted “promising” new rules for disqualification and recusal. The decision in Caperton allowed states to adopt judicial recusal and disqualification standards for when judges must hear cases involving past campaign contributors.

In the Midwest, only Michigan has passed new disqualification rules, and most states have failed to take action. The press release also includes a chart showing the advancements made in recusal and disqualification rules in the states.
Bert Brandenburg of Justice at Stake said: “Courts have it in their power to update their rules, so there is no reason for continued delay.” With judicial election spending more than doubling over the last decade, the groups feel there is necessary to update court rules. 

Read the press release at the Brennan Center for Justice. Read more at Justice at Stake’s blog, Gavel Grab.