Higher age limit for Ohio judges to go before voters

COLUMBUS (AP) — Voters will decide this fall whether to raise an age limit for Ohio judges.

Since 1973, the state has allowed people up to age 70 to be elected or appointed to the bench. The Columbus Dispatch reports the maximum would be raised to 76 under a proposed constitutional amendment approved for the November ballot this week by Ohio lawmakers.

Supporters of the higher age limit say people are living and maintain their vitality longer.

Democratic state Rep. Dennis Murray of Sandusky opposed the change. He says he’s seen judges who held on too long and could not be persuaded to retire.

The Ohio Prosecuting Attorneys Association also is against the higher limit. Executive Director John Murphy tells the Dispatch the mind doesn’t necessarily stay sharp during a longer life.