This bill aims to create an additional circuit judgeship in the Nineteenth Judicial District-West to address the increasing caseloads and ensure the efficient administration of justice. The General Assembly has determined that one additional circuit judge is necessary, as assessed by the Judicial Resources Assessment Committee. The new judgeship will be established effective April 1, 2025, and the judge will be elected by the qualified voters of the district, serving a six-year term with the same qualifications, salary, and allowances as existing circuit judges.

Additionally, the bill outlines that the county will be responsible for providing the necessary courtroom and office facilities, as well as a court reporter and trial court administrator for the new judgeship. The vacancy for this judgeship will be filled during the 2026 nonpartisan judicial general election, with the elected judge taking office on January 1, 2027. An emergency clause is included, stating that the act is necessary for the preservation of public peace, health, and safety, allowing it to take effect immediately on the specified date.

Statutes affected:
SB 234: 16-13-3002
Act 220: 16-13-3002