This bill amends the Iowa Code to reform the appointment and compensation processes for magistrates and judicial officers, transitioning from a county-based system to one based on judicial election districts. Key changes include the establishment of judicial election district magistrate appointing commissions, which will now consist of representatives from each county within the district, appointed by the board of supervisors. The bill also modifies the appointment process for magistrates, allowing the supreme court to determine the distribution of magistrates based on a formula that considers case-related workloads. Additionally, it introduces provisions for senior magistrates, enabling retired magistrates who meet specific criteria to serve in a limited capacity while receiving compensation similar to active magistrates.

Furthermore, the legislation mandates a 5% salary increase for judicial officers, effective June 18, 2027, and sets the salary for judicial magistrates at 40% of a district associate judge's salary. It establishes a retirement age for senior magistrates and outlines the process for their removal or relinquishment of status. The bill also includes a sunset provision for the chief judge's authority to assign magistrates to fill vacancies in other counties, which will expire on August 1, 2027. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the magistrate system in Iowa by creating a more structured approach to appointments and ensuring that experienced magistrates can continue to contribute to the judicial system.

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