Rep. Neguse Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Expand Access to Courts & Ensure Fair Legal Representation for Coloradans

Washington, D.C. — Today, Congressman Joe Neguse introduced the bipartisan Rocky Mountain Judgeship Act, a bill that authorizes two additional district judgeships in Colorado which have been inhibited by significant caseload backlogs. Colorado only has one federal district with several courts throughout the state; there are currently seven district judges on the court, with the most recent judgeship added in 1984. For nearly two decades, the Judicial Conference has recommended at least one additional judgeship for the District of Colorado to ensure support for the state’s growing population. 

Between 2010 and 2020, the state of Colorado saw its population grow at nearly twice the rate of the rest of the nation. The state’s Federal district courts are reported to be struggling with caseload backlogs as the same number of judges attempt to serve a larger number of residents. Excessive caseloads for judges can result in longer processing times, employee turnover, and more. 

“Federal district judgeships help make up the backbone of our judicial system,” said Congressman 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.” 

The bill, which is co-led by Representatives Ross Fulcher (R-ID) and Mike Simpson (R-ID), will also apportion an additional district judge for Idaho. 

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

“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."

Specifically, the Rocky Mountain Judgeship Act allows the President to appoint, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, two additional district judges for the District of Colorado and one additional district judge for the District of Idaho. In addition to population growth, severe weather and the geography of both states can create dangerous travel conditions for judges working to manage caseloads and defendants seeking access to justice in areas away from divisional offices. 

Congressman Neguse has been a champion of proposals to ensure proper judicial representation for the state of Colorado. Last year, he introduced two bills to authorize additional federal district judgeships in Colorado.

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