BOISE, Idaho — Idaho Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch are seeking a third federal judge for Idaho.
This will be a move that hasn't been seen in more than 60 years.
Idaho is one of only three states with only two authorized judge seats for the entire state.
Currently, Chief District Judge David C. Nye and Judge B. Lynn Winmill hold the seats.
Since 2003, the Judicial Conference of the U.S. has consistently found Idaho facing a judicial emergency based on weighted caseload numbers per active judge.
In a statement, Sen. Crapo said in part:
"Judges from other districts have stepped in to assist but the amount of cases and related legal work is causing judge and court employees in Idaho and from neighboring districts to work many overtime hours."
And Sen. Risch added…
"The 'judicial emergency' facing Idaho has put our state and legal system at a great disadvantage. Adding a third district judgeship in Idaho is common sense and would help administer efficient and effective justice in our state."
Idaho's two congressional representatives, Mike Simpson and Russ Fulcher, introduced similar legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives last week.