FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
CONTACT: Christianné Allen, Christianne.Allen@mail.house.gov
CONTACT: Marisa Melton, Marisa.Melton@mail.house.gov
Fulcher's Statement on Co-Sponsoring Bill to Add Third Federal Judgeship to Idaho
WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher issued the following statement after becoming an original co-sponsor of H.R. 319, legislation to add a third federal district judgeship to Idaho.
“Idaho’s population has nearly tripled since a second district court judge was added,” said Congressman Fulcher, an original cosponsor. “A third district judgeship is not only justified, it’s necessary. Doing so will save taxpayer money as it avoids the costly burden of having to bring in non-local judges to oversee backlogged cases, and it will ensure citizens—especially those in rural Idaho communities—have quick and improved access to the court system. Getting this legislation across the finish line is a top priority for me this Congress.”
Congressman Mike Simpson, author of the bill, added, “Justice for Idahoans is being delayed because our state desperately needs a third district judge. President Biden's veto of the bipartisan, bicameral JUDGES Act last month was a slap in the face to Americans who have been waiting far too long for their day in court. That legislation would have created much-needed federal judgeships across the nation, including in Idaho, where the demand for judicial resources has reached a breaking point. Adding another district judge in our state is long overdue. My bill will alleviate overburdened judges, reduce the caseload backlog, and provide justice promptly. I will continue to fight to ensure this critical legislation gets across the finish line.”
Idaho Senators Crapo and Risch introduced the Senate companion of this legislation (S. 54).
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