Opinion 09-166

October 13, 2009

Hon.

Dear Judge:

         This responds to your inquiry (09-166) asking whether you may lend your support, by letter and lobbying efforts directed at state elected officials, to a bill designed to improve prisoner healthcare and to increase state accountability for such care.

         This Committee has previously held that it is ethically permissible for judges to lobby in support of legislation concerning the legal system and the administration of justice. Therefore, this Committee answers your inquiry in the affirmative.

         Enclosed for your convenience are Opinions 06-34 and 99-158 which address this issue.

Very truly yours,

George D. Marlow

Justice of the Supreme Court (Ret.)

Committee Chair

Encls.