SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6330
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in
their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a
statement of legislative intent.
As of January 26, 2008
Title: An act relating to juror compensation.
Brief Description: Modifying juror compensation provisions.
Sponsors: Senators McCaslin and Kohl-Welles.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Judiciary: 1/29/08.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY
Staff: Lidia Mori (786-7755)
Background: In Washington, jurors may receive up to $25 but in no case less than $10 for each
day's attendance at jury service, besides mileage at a rate prescribed and regulated by the Director
of Financial Management. Juror pay is funded completely by cities and counties; the state does
not contribute to juror pay.
In 2006 ESSB 6386 passed the Legislature and $569,000 of the General Fund-State appropriation
for fiscal year 2007 was provided for a juror pay pilot and research project. The legislation
provided that jurors participating in the pilot project jurisdictions may receive juror fees of up to
$62 for each day of attendance in addition to mileage. The pilot project jurisdictions include:
(1) Clark County Superior and District courts; (2) Franklin County Superior and District courts
and Pasco Municipal Court; and (3) Des Moines Municipal Court. The 2007 Legislature
appropriated $325,000 to continue the pilot project through October, 2007, and conduct surveys
afterwards. A final report is expected by May of 2008.
Summary of Bill: In Superior Court or a court of limited jurisdiction, jurors may receive up to
$65 but in no case less than $50 for each day's attendance at jury service, besides mileage at a rate
prescribed and regulated by the Director of Financial Management. The state is required to fully
reimburse the county for juror compensation. In civil and criminal cases in municipal court, each
juror may receive up to $65 but in no case less than $50 for each day of jury service. The state
is responsible for reimbursing the city for the juror compensation.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on January 26, 2008.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.