(a) Magisterial district judges.--
(1) Every magisterial district judge shall complete a continuing education program each year equivalent to not less than 32 hours per year in such courses or programs as are approved by the board. One such course must be in the identification and reporting of suspected child abuse as defined by 23 Pa.C.S. Ch. 63 (relating to child protective services) and court proceedings involving children. At least every six years, the program shall include the identification of mental illness, intellectual disabilities and autism and the availability of diversionary options for individuals with mental illness, intellectual disabilities or autism.
(2) If a magisterial district judge fails to meet these continuing education requirements, such judge shall be subject to suspension by the Supreme Court until such time as evidence of compliance with such requirements is submitted by the board, but in no event longer than six months at which time the failure to meet the continuing education requirements shall be grounds for the Supreme Court, after a hearing, to declare a vacancy in that district.
(b) Arraignment court magistrates.--Every arraignment court magistrate shall complete a continuing education program each year equivalent to not less than 20 hours per year in such courses or programs as are approved by the board.