State Representative Matt Huffman (R-Lima) today announced that the Ohio House of Representatives passed legislation to increase the Ohio judicial age of retirement to 75 years of age. Currently, Ohio law prohibits any individual from election or appointment to judicial office if they turn 70 before assuming office.

House Joint Resolution 1 will allow more practiced judges who are willing and able to serve to remain on the bench. Chief Justice Maureen O’Connor supports raising the mandatory retirement age, as did the late Chief Justice Thomas Moyer.

The legislation passed by a vote of 70-26 and now moves to the Ohio Senate for further consideration. If enacted, a constitutional amendment will be voted on by Ohio voters in the November general election.