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Bill Summary · SB 234

Summary of Senate Bill 234 (SB 234)

Overview

Senate Bill 234 (SB 234) is a legislative proposal introduced in the State of Arkansas aimed at addressing the judicial needs of the Nineteenth Judicial District-West. The bill seeks to create an additional circuit judgeship to enhance the administration of justice in the district. It was introduced on February 14, 2025, and has been carried over to the 2024 Regular Session.

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SB 234 is to:
- Establish one additional circuit judgeship in the Nineteenth Judicial District-West.
- Ensure the efficient and timely administration of justice in response to increasing caseloads as identified by the Judicial Resources Assessment Committee.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several key provisions:
1. Creation of Additional Judgeship:
- An additional circuit judgeship will be created effective April 1, 2025, with jurisdiction over law, equity, probate, and juvenile matters.

  1. Election Process:

    • The new circuit judge will be elected by the qualified voters of the district.
    • The judge must meet the same qualifications as existing circuit judges and will serve a term of six years.

  2. Funding and Resources:

    • The county comprising the Nineteenth Judicial District-West will be responsible for providing courtroom and office facilities, as well as necessary supplies, funded through the county treasury.
    • A court reporter and a trial court administrator will also be appointed for the new judgeship, with their salaries determined according to existing laws for circuit court personnel.

  3. Emergency Clause:

    • The bill includes an emergency clause, allowing it to take effect immediately upon passage to address urgent judicial needs.

  4. Vacancy Filling:

    • The vacancy for the new judgeship will be filled during the 2026 nonpartisan judicial general election, with the elected judge taking office on January 1, 2027.

Impact

The enactment of SB 234 is expected to:
- Alleviate the burden on the existing judicial system in the Nineteenth Judicial District-West by providing additional judicial resources.
- Improve the efficiency of court proceedings and reduce delays in case handling.
- Enhance access to justice for residents within the district.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 14, 2025: SB 234 filed.
  • February 20, 2025: The bill was read and passed in the Senate and referred to the House.
  • February 26, 2025: The bill passed in the House and was ordered enrolled.
  • February 27, 2025: Notification that SB 234 is now Act 220.

Conclusion

Senate Bill 234 represents a proactive step by the Arkansas General Assembly to address judicial resource needs in the Nineteenth Judicial District-West. By creating an additional circuit judgeship, the bill aims to enhance the administration of justice and ensure timely legal proceedings for the community.

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

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