| Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Judiciary Committee | |
HB 1269
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.
Title: An act relating to superior court judicial positions.
Brief Description: Modifying provisions relating to superior court judicial positions.
Sponsors: Representatives Quall, Strow, Bailey, Morris and Kenney; by request of Board For Judicial Administration.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/31/07
Staff: Bill Perry (786-7123).
Background:
The Legislature sets by statute the number of superior court judges in each county. The state and
the counties share the costs of the superior courts. Benefits and one-half of the salary of a
superior court judge are paid by the state. The other half of the judge's salary and all other costs
associated with a judicial position, such as capital and support staff costs, are borne by the
county.
Most counties operate their own superior courts. In a few cases, however, two or more counties
with relatively small populations share judges jointly. Island County and San Juan County share
two judges.
Periodically, the Administrative Office of the Courts does a workload analysis of the superior
courts to determine if additional judicial positions are needed.
Summary of Bill:
The total number of superior court judges in Island County and San Juan County is increased
from two to three. Island County and San Juan County no longer share judges of the superior
court. Island County retains the two existing judicial positions, and a new judicial position is
created in San Juan County.
The new judicial position in San Juan County, and the allocation of two positions for Island
County, take effect only after both counties document their approval of the changes and agree to
bear their shares of the costs of the positions.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.