Rep. Simpson Introduces Bill to Add a Third Federal Judge for Idaho

WASHINGTON- Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson introduced a bill that would add a needed federal district judgeship to resolve currently understaffed and backlogged courts in Idaho.

"Justice for Idahoans is being delayed because our state desperately needs a third district judge," said Rep. Simpson. "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'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."

Rep. Simpson has fought for a more efficient and manageable court system in Idaho throughout his time in Congress. Most recently, Rep. Simpson voted in favor of the Judicial Understaffing Delays Getting Emergencies Solved Act of 2024 (JUDGES Act). President Biden vetoed the JUDGES Act in December 2024 despite this bicameral and bipartisan legislation having broad support and passing the House and Senate. Congress last authorized a second federal judgeship for Idaho in 1954.

Idaho Senators Crapo and Risch introduced the Senate companion of this legislation (S. 54).

The full text of the bill is available here.