This bill amends the Iowa Code to reform the appointment and compensation processes for magistrates and other judicial officers. Key changes include the establishment of magistrate appointing commissions within judicial election districts, replacing previous county-based structures. The bill modifies the composition of these commissions, allowing for one representative from each county and a number of attorneys equal to one fewer than the county representatives. It also introduces a new provision for the chief judge to assign magistrates to fill vacancies in counties, with a workload limit set at one-third of a full-time position, expiring on August 1, 2027. Additionally, the bill sets eligibility criteria for magistrates, including a maximum age limit of seventy-eight at the time of appointment.

In terms of compensation, the bill mandates a 5 percent salary increase for judicial officers, excluding magistrates, effective June 18, 2027, and establishes magistrate salaries at 40 percent of a district associate judge's salary. It also creates a "senior magistrate" position for retired magistrates who meet specific criteria, allowing them to serve in a limited capacity without reappointment if they reach the age of 78. The bill includes administrative changes, such as the requirement for district court administrators to maintain records of magistrate appointments and for commission member reimbursements to be covered by their county of residence. Overall, these amendments aim to modernize the judicial appointment process and enhance the compensation structure for judicial officers in Iowa.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 331.321, 331.502, 331.653, 556F.14, 602.1214, 602.6501, 602.1501, 602.2301, 602.6403, 602.6304, 602.6401, 602.6303, 602.6404, 602.6503, 806.2, 806.1, 602.1610, 602.9302