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SJR 13

DIRECTING THE DELAWARE JUDICIARY TO ESTABLISH A PILOT COURT DATE REMINDER PROGRAM AND TO STUDY AND REPORT ON THE FEASIBILITY OF EXPANDING THE PROGRAM STATEWIDE.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Frank Cooke and 19 co-sponsors

Delaware judiciary must pilot a court date reminder program and report on statewide expansion feasibility to reduce missed appearances and improve case processing efficiency.

Signed by Governor
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SJR 13

Legislative bill overview

SJR 13 directs Delaware's judicial system to create a pilot program that sends court date reminders to defendants and other parties, then evaluate whether this program should be expanded throughout the state. The bill requires the judiciary to study the program's effectiveness and feasibility before deciding on wider implementation.

Why is this important

Court date reminders can significantly reduce "failure to appear" rates, which cost the judicial system time and resources while undermining case processing. Missing court dates also disproportionately affects lower-income individuals who lack reliable access to calendars or communication tools, potentially worsening outcomes in their cases. A successful program could improve court efficiency, reduce unnecessary warrants, and increase fairness in the justice system.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding: The bill doesn't specify who pays for the reminder system (SMS, email, phone calls), which could be expensive depending on scope and technology chosen
  • Scope ambiguity: It's unclear which courts, case types, or defendants would be included in the pilot, and whether participation would be mandatory or voluntary
  • Privacy concerns: Automated reminder systems require collecting and storing contact information, raising questions about data security and whether defendants consent to being contacted
  • Equity questions: Without clear metrics, the study may not adequately assess whether reminders benefit disadvantaged populations more than others, or if certain groups face implementation barriers

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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