Includes whereas clauses.

Subject to approval by the majority of voters at the general election on November 3, 2026, amends Article IV of the North Carolina constitution as follows. Adds new Section 23 specifying that the Judicial Standards Commission (Commission) consists of five specified types of judges appointed by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, five licensed attorneys appointed by the NC State Bar officers, and five citizens who are not lawyers or judges, appointed by the Governor (requires all members to State residents). Requires that any disciplinary hearings held before and sanctions imposed by the Commission be made public. Effective upon certification. Sets out ballot language.

If the constitutional amendment becomes effective, makes the following changes.

Amends GS 7A-374.1 by making conforming changes. Amends GS 7A-375 by removing the currently specified makeup of the Judicial Standards Commission. Makes conforming changes to the provision for filling vacancies and for the disqualification of members. Amends GS 7A-377 by no longer making the Commission’s notice and statement of charges and answer and other pleadings when the Commission concludes that disciplinary proceedings should be instituted. Requires disciplinary hearings to be held publicly and for the Commission’s recommendations and record to be made public. Requires at least eight (was, five) members of the Commission to concur in any recommendation to issue a public reprimand, censure, suspend, or remove a judge. Effective January 1, 2027.