H.R.1702 - Judicial Understaffing Delays Getting Emergencies Solved Act of 2025; JUDGES Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1702, the JUDGES Act of 2025, aims to address judicial understaffing by authorizing additional district judges for district courts across the United States. The bill proposes a phased increase in judgeships from 2025 to 2035, allocating new judges to specific districts based on demonstrated need. It also includes provisions for temporary judgeships and requires GAO reports on judicial caseloads and detention space needs.
Expected Effects
The bill's passage would lead to a significant increase in the number of federal district judges, potentially reducing caseloads and speeding up the resolution of cases. This could improve access to justice and reduce delays in the legal system. The phased approach allows for gradual adjustment and assessment of the impact of the new judgeships.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced caseloads for existing judges, leading to faster case resolution.
- Improved access to justice for individuals and businesses.
- Enhanced efficiency in the judicial system.
- Increased capacity to handle complex and emerging legal issues.
- Better allocation of judicial resources to areas with the greatest need.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased government spending due to the salaries and support staff required for the new judgeships.
- Potential for political considerations to influence the appointment of judges.
- Possible delays in the confirmation process by the Senate.
- Risk that the allocated judgeships may not perfectly align with actual caseload demands over time.
- The temporary judgeship provision could create uncertainty and instability in the long term.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
Article III, Section 1 of the Constitution vests the judicial power of the United States in the Supreme Court and such inferior courts as Congress may from time to time ordain and establish. This bill directly exercises Congress's power to create judgeships in the district courts, aligning with this constitutional provision. The appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate, as outlined in Article II, Section 2, Clause 2, ensuring checks and balances in the process.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).