ROSEBURG, Ore. — Governor Tina Kotek has enacted Senate Bill 95, which introduces new judicial positions in Douglas, Lane, and Clackamas counties. This landmark decision comes after decades of stagnant judicial resources in Douglas County, where the number of elected judges has remained unchanged for over 40 years.
According to a statement from the Douglas County Circuit Court, there have been no additions to the judicial bench since the Oregon Judicial Department began keeping records in 1985. The call for a new judge in Douglas County has been persistent, with requests included in legislative proposals since 2017.
Before the introduction of Senate Bill 95, a Judicial Workload Study conducted by the Oregon Judicial Branch identified a pressing need for additional judges. The study specifically indicated that Douglas County required three more judges to effectively manage its rising case filings.
The Douglas County Circuit Court expressed gratitude toward the lawmakers who recognized this urgent need and supported the bill. The court’s statement highlighted the significance of increased judicial resources for both the legal system and the community.
This legislative change aims to alleviate the strain on the current judicial system, which officials believe is necessary to deliver timely justice. Advocates for the measure argued that the lack of sufficient judicial staff has led to delays in court proceedings, impacting citizens seeking legal resolutions.
As the counties prepare for the implementation of these new judicial roles, the hope is that the move will enhance the efficiency and responsiveness of the judicial process in these regions.
In summary, Senate Bill 95 represents a critical step toward addressing long-standing judicial resource shortages in Oregon. By adding new judgeships in Douglas County and beyond, the state aims to improve the legal landscape for its residents, ensuring that justice is not just served, but served promptly.
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