The bill amends RCW 35.20.200 to eliminate the requirement that judges pro tempore in municipalities with populations exceeding 400,000 must reside within the city. The presiding municipal court judge is now authorized to appoint judges pro tempore from any full-time district court judges serving in the same county, rather than being limited to attorneys residing in the city. This change aims to enhance the flexibility and efficiency of the judicial system in larger municipalities.

Additionally, the bill specifies that judges pro tempore must be electors of Washington State and attorneys admitted to practice law in the state's courts, but they are no longer required to be city residents. The legislation also clarifies that while serving, judges pro tempore will have the same powers as regular judges and must take an oath similar to that of a municipal judge. Compensation for judges pro tempore will be determined by city ordinance, with specific provisions for district court judges regarding payment.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 35.20.200
Bill as Passed Legislature: 35.20.200
Session Law: 35.20.200