Whitman County Gazette - Serving Whitman County since 1877

OLYMPIA — The state House of Representatives approved a bill Tuesday by Rep. Mary Dye that would allow a temporary judicial officer to be designated to step into the courtroom of a single-court judge if the presiding judge becomes unavailable, incapacitated, ill, or dies.

“There are more than 112 single judge courts in Washington state. If a vacancy arises, it could take weeks or months to fill that position, delaying court cases. Justice delayed is justice denied,” Dye, R-Pomeroy, said.

“This bill ensures that gap is filled so cases can be heard in a timely manner and to reduce th...