Austin News

U.S. Senators John Cornyn, Chris Coons, Jerry Moran, Jeanne Shaheen, and Sheldon Whitehouse have introduced the Countering Threats and Attacks on Our Judges Act. The bill aims to establish a State Judicial Threat Intelligence and Resource Center to provide support and protection for state and local judges and court personnel.

Senator Cornyn emphasized the importance of protecting judges, stating, “Any threat or attack against judges, their families, or court personnel is unacceptable, and more must be done to ensure they can do their jobs safely and live their lives without fear.”

Senator Coons echoed this sentiment, highlighting the impact of heightened polarization on judicial safety, saying, “Every public servant, including the members of our state and local judiciary, should be able to do their jobs free from threats to themselves, their families, or their livelihoods.”

Senator Moran emphasized the need for resources to combat threats against judges, stating, “Regardless of how a judge rules on a case, any form of harassment or intimidation is unacceptable.”

Senator Shaheen highlighted the importance of the legislation in addressing the increase in violence towards judges, stating, “This legislation will establish a State Judicial Threat Intelligence and Resource Center to help implement the enhanced security measures necessary to keep people safe around the country and in New Hampshire.”

Senator Whitehouse addressed the concerning rise in threats against judges, stating, “Our bipartisan bill to improve security at courthouses and judges’ homes will protect court officials from violence and harassment and help safeguard the integrity of the judicial system.”

The Countering Threats and Attacks on Our Judges Act aims to create a State Judicial Threat Intelligence and Resource Center that will provide technical assistance, conduct physical security assessments, research best practices around judicial security, and be housed within the State Justice Institute. The legislation has garnered support from various organizations within the judicial community.

The Conference of Chief Justices, Conference of State Court Administrators, Council of Chief Judges of the State Courts of Appeal, and other associations have expressed their support for the bill, recognizing the importance of ensuring the safety and independence of judges and court personnel.