GOP senator wants to change justice qualifications

HELENA — A Republican state senator launched a long-shot bid Thursday for a constitutional amendment that would require prior judicial experience for Montana Supreme Court justices.

The proposal would require approval from 100 of 150 lawmakers before it could be sent to the voters, a tough hurdle to clear even if all 90 Republicans in the Legislature back it.

But Fred Thomas, of Stevensville, said he thinks the measure has a "50-50" chance.

As written, the measure would require candidates to have experience as a District Court judge. But Thomas said he may expand the requirement to allow any j...