LANSING, MI, July 24, 2024 – The state budget signed today by the Governor allocates over $17.5 million in new funding to the Michigan judiciary for the next fiscal year (October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025), along with limited additional funding for the remainder of this fiscal year. This budget aims to enhance efficiency through a statewide case management system and improve the safety of Michigan jurists.
"Those of us who sit on the bench cannot adequately do our jobs and serve the people of Michigan without maintaining confidence and trust in our court system—not to mention our own safety in an age of heightened exposure," said Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Elizabeth T. Clement. "I want to thank the governor and legislative leaders for their continued support as we work to accomplish these goals and to continue improving service to the public."
Budget highlights include:
Statewide Case Management System: New ongoing funding will provide for seven new full-time employees (FTE) and operating costs. This will facilitate transitioning from a complex network of various case management tools to a single, uniform statewide system.
Judicial Security: Funding has been allocated for one FTE position dedicated to judicial security concerning personally identifying information. This initiative aims to assist judges in removing personal information such as home addresses, phone numbers, and children's school addresses from the internet in response to increasing threats against judges nationwide.
Judgeship Changes: Funding has been designated for two new judgeships—one probate court judgeship in Macomb County and one district court judgeship in Kent County. These additions aim to increase access and efficiency within these courts.
Behavioral Health Administrator: Funding includes one FTE position for a behavioral health administrator within the State Court Administrative Office (SCAO). The administrator will help analyze, develop, and implement improved court responses and services related to mental health issues and substance use disorder. This initiative follows recommendations from expert panels studying how courts can better address behavioral health issues.
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