STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
RS27743 / S1356
This bill would add one new district judge position with resident chambers in Bonner County, beginning October
1, 2020. The last new district judge position in the First Judicial District was created in 2006, and the last one
before that in 1997. The population of the First Judicial District increased by 19% from 2006 to 2018, and it
continues to grow. The judiciary has been able to keep pace with the corresponding growth in court calendars
by the use of senior judges and by having active judges assigned to cases in districts other than their own
when required. Drug and mental health courts operating in this district have provided a cost-effective means of
avoiding expensive incarceration costs while protecting the community. Their operation has been possible only
because judges have been willing to devote time beyond normal working hours to preside over these courts.
Dealing with Idaho's growing population and caseload requires these additional judicial resources.
FISCAL NOTE
The cost for Fiscal Year 2021, including salary and benefits for the district judge position and other costs,
including the salary and benefits for a court reporter as required by section 1-1101, Idaho Code, will total
approximately $271,300 in general funds since the start date for these positions will be October 1, 2020.
Contact:
Jason Spillman, Legal Counsel
Administrative Office of the Courts
(208) 334-2246
DISCLAIMER: This statement of purpose and fiscal note are a mere attachment to this bill and prepared by a proponent
of the bill. It is neither intended as an expression of legislative intent nor intended for any use outside of the legislative
process, including judicial review (Joint Rule 18).
Statement of Purpose / Fiscal Note Bill SOP/FN INTRODUCED: 02/21/2020, 4:00 PM


Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 1-802