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1370XD

Judicial Branch Administration (1370XD) - Judicial Branch

2025-2026 Regular Session

Bill 1370XD enhances Iowa's judicial system by enforcing residency for judges, improving court reporter roles, and expanding remote proceedings for better public access.

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Bill Summary · 1370XD

Summary of Bill 1370XD - Judicial Branch Administration

Bill Number: 1370XD
Title: Judicial Branch Administration
Introduced: November 18, 2025
Status: Proposed Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill 1370XD aims to enhance the administration of the judicial branch in Iowa by updating various provisions related to judicial officer residency, remote court proceedings, the supervision and duties of court reporters, and the availability of civil pleadings. The bill seeks to streamline judicial operations and improve access to justice for residents.

Key Provisions

Division I: Judicial Officer Residency

  1. Residency Requirements:

    • District judges, district associate judges, magistrates, full-time associate juvenile judges, and full-time associate probate judges must be residents of their respective judicial election districts or contiguous counties during their term of office.
    • Judges are required to serve within the district of their appointment.

  2. Reassignment of Judges:

    • Judges may be reassigned as necessary under existing provisions to ensure the orderly administration of justice.

Division II: Miscellaneous Judicial Administration

  1. Court Reporter Certification:

    • Only certified shorthand reporters may engage in shorthand reporting and use the title "certified shorthand reporter" (C.S.R.).
    • The bill clarifies the authority of the chief judge in supervising and assigning duties to court reporters.

  2. Remote Proceedings:

    • Courts may conduct proceedings via remote means, with specific provisions for actions and special proceedings that do not require a jury.

  3. Court Reporter Duties:

    • The chief judge or their designee will supervise all court reporters within the judicial district.
    • Provisions are included for appointing temporary court reporters in cases of extraordinary workload or vacancies.

  4. Repeal of Obsolete Section:

    • The bill repeals Section 602.11110 of the Code 2025, which is deemed outdated.

Impact

Who Would Be Affected

  • Judicial Officers: The bill directly impacts judges and magistrates by enforcing residency requirements and clarifying their roles and responsibilities.
  • Court Reporters: Changes in supervision and certification requirements will affect court reporters and their operations.
  • Litigants and the Public: Enhanced remote proceedings and clearer access to civil pleadings aim to improve the experience for individuals engaging with the judicial system.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill is currently in the proposed stage and will undergo further legislative processes, including potential amendments and voting by the General Assembly of Iowa.

Conclusion

Bill 1370XD represents a significant update to Iowa's judicial administration framework, focusing on residency requirements for judicial officers, the role of court reporters, and the facilitation of remote court proceedings. If enacted, it aims to improve the efficiency and accessibility of the judicial system in Iowa.

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

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