MADISON – Representative Shae Sortwell (R-Gibson) and Senator Cory Tomczyk (R-Mosinee) circulated the following legislation to limit taxpayer dollars going to pay judges that have been suspended:
“The suspension of a judge is a very serious and rare action. This bill is written to prevent a judge that is suspended from collecting pay. Judge Hannah Dugan was suspended by the Wisconsin Supreme Court while her criminal proceedings are ongoing, however she is still collecting her pay,” said Rep. Sortwell. “The taxpayers will have to fund an extended vacation for her, while already paying for reserve judges filling in.”
“We want to make sure the public has confidence in the courts of Wisconsin during pending criminal proceedings for judges. This is important legislation to ensure that there are not unjust rewards for judges who are suspended,” said Sen. Tomczyk.
“Our highest court previously suspended a Dane County Circuit Court Judge without pay for judicial misconduct just a month ago,” said Rep. Sortwell. “Judicial suspension policy needs to be proper and consistent to ensure taxpayer dollars are not being wasted.”
