WASHINGTON— Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson joined Representatives Joe Neguse (D-CO) and Russ Fulcher (R-ID) in introducing the bipartisan Rocky Mountain Judgeship Act. This legislation would add a needed new federal district judgeship in Idaho and an additional two judgeships in Colorado. With population increases in Idaho and Colorado, court systems in both states have been overburdened with higher caseloads and too few federal judges.

“As Idaho’s population continues to grow, so do the number of court cases,” said Rep. Simpson. “Unfortunately, the overwhelming number of cases creates a slower process for those Idahoans seeking justice. Adding a new judgeship will alleviate overburdened judges, reduce the caseload backlog, and provide justice promptly. I once again ask the Judiciary Committee to correct this imbalance by sending this critical legislation to the House floor so it can get across the finish line.”

“Court cases continue to climb as we see an influx of individuals relocating to Idaho,” said Rep. Fulcher. “Giving the option to add additional judgeships will elevate caseload backlogs and help Idahoans get the justice they deserve in a timely manner.”

“Federal district judgeships help make up the backbone of our judicial system,” said Rep. Neguse. “Building and maintaining trust in our judicial systems is of the utmost importance, and by supporting an adequate size of our Federal district courts we are ensuring that Coloradans will have their cases addressed in a reasonable and timely manner. Expanding the bench is good for the state and good for our people.” 

Rep. Simpson has fought for a more efficient and manageable court system in Idaho throughout his time in Congress. Most recently, Rep. Simpson introduced H.R.270 - the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals Reorganization Act, and H.R. 269 - to authorize an additional district judgeship for the district of Idaho with Rep. Fulcher. 

The full text of the bill is available here.