Every year, thousands of Pennsylvanians attend jury duty throughout the state, lending their diverse voices to numerous cases. Often, those attending jury duty must find their own transportation, journey to the courthouse, and attend long hearings. For our older citizens, this can be exhausting. Although most states excuse individuals from jury duty earlier, Pennsylvanians may be called on until they are 75 years of age.
 
To address this issue, my legislation would lower the age limit for jury duty exemption from 75 years of age to 70 years of age. This would prevent older individuals from having to travel long distances to participate in jury duty, giving them more time to spend with their families and friends as they age. Having done their civic duty for decades, older individuals deserve a break from the stress of being called for jury duty.
 
As legislators, we should ensure that our laws reflect the needs of our aging population and reduce unnecessary burdens on older adults. Lowering the jury duty exemption age is a practical step toward supporting the health, well-being, and quality of life of Pennsylvania’s senior citizens.
 
Please join me in co-sponsoring this commonsense legislation to provide greater flexibility and reduce the burden of jury service for older Pennsylvanians.