Summary

Adds five new federal district judge positions for the Eastern District of California to reduce extreme caseloads and delays. The positions are phased in over time: two can be filled starting in 2027, one in 2029, and two more in 2031, with presidential appointment and Senate confirmation. Authorizes whatever funds are needed to implement the new judgeships, including money for courtroom space and other facilities. The bill is based on findings that the district’s population, size, and case volume far exceed current judicial capacity.

Key Points

• Adds five new federal district judgeships for the Eastern District of California.
• Appointments are phased in: 2 in 2027, 1 in 2029, and 2 in 2031 (on or after set dates).
• Requires presidential appointment and Senate confirmation for each position.
• Updates the official federal court judgeship table in step with each phase-in date.
• Authorizes necessary funding, including for courtroom space and facilities.
• Aims to reduce severe caseloads and delays identified in legislative findings.
• Limited in scope to one federal judicial district; no changes elsewhere.
• Does not appropriate funds, impose mandates, or change tax law.

Categories & Tags