East Idaho Times

Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson has introduced a bill, H.R. 319, aimed at adding a third federal district judge to address the understaffed and backlogged courts in Idaho. The move comes after President Biden's recent veto of the JUDGES Act, which sought to create additional federal judgeships nationwide.

"Justice for Idahoans is being delayed because our state desperately needs a third district judge," stated Rep. Simpson. He criticized President Biden's veto as "a slap in the face to Americans who have been waiting far too long for their day in court." Simpson emphasized that his bill would help alleviate overburdened judges, reduce caseload backlog, and provide timely justice.

Congressman Fulcher, an original cosponsor of the bill, highlighted Idaho's growing population as justification for the new judgeship. "A third district judgeship is not only justified; it’s necessary," he said. Fulcher also noted that this addition would save taxpayer money by reducing the need for non-local judges and improve access to justice for rural communities.

Throughout his tenure in Congress, Rep. Simpson has advocated for a more efficient court system in Idaho. He supported the Judicial Understaffing Delays Getting Emergencies Solved Act of 2024 (JUDGES Act), which was vetoed by President Biden despite bipartisan support.

Idaho Senators Crapo and Risch have introduced a companion bill in the Senate (S. 54) to further this legislative effort.

The full text of H.R. 319 is available online.