The Shasta County Courthouse reopened today after being closed for eight days due to flooding. However, the focus for many visitors was the recent reduction in juror pay.
Just over nine months ago, jury pay was increased to $100 per day starting on the second day of service, funded by a state pilot program. This program has now been discontinued as part of Governor Newsom’s measures to address California’s $12 billion deficit.
As of Monday, jurors summoned for duty will now receive only $15 a day. Those already serving on trials will continue to receive the $100 daily rate. Additionally, mileage reimbursement has been halved from 67 cents per mile round trip to 34 cents. Shasta County was one of seven counties that benefited from the pay increase following the passage of AB 1891 in 2022.
The reduction has drawn mixed reactions from the public. Some, like Esteban Palavicina, feel less appreciated for their civic duty with the pay cut, stating that the inconvenience of jury service is compounded by the financial loss. Conversely, Joanne Brady expressed her commitment to serving regardless of pay, while Candace Murray acknowledged the satisfaction of serving but highlighted the personal sacrifices involved.
The program’s initial cost was nearly $5.5 million, and its elimination is expected to save this amount, which will be redirected to help alleviate the state’s budget shortfall. Meanwhile, repairs to the courthouse from the recent flooding are still ongoing.
