The bill makes appropriations to the judicial branch of Iowa for the fiscal year 2025-2026, allocating funds for various purposes including salaries for judicial officers, juror compensation, and expenses related to juvenile court services. Specifically, it appropriates $203,899,106 for judicial salaries, $4,408,425 for jury and witness fees, and $3,290,000 for juvenile services. The bill also allows for civil trials to be held in contiguous counties if all parties agree, permits judicial officers to waive travel reimbursements, and allows for unpaid leave for judicial officers during temporary layoffs.

Significant changes include an increase in juror compensation from $30 to $45 per day, with a provision for $65 per day after the seventh day of service. Additionally, the bill establishes a new formula for calculating judicial officer salaries based on a percentage of federal district judge salaries, with specific percentages outlined for various judicial positions. The supreme court is granted the authority to adjust salaries downward if appropriations are insufficient. These provisions are set to take effect on June 20, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 602.1302, 602.1501, 602.9104