The U.S. House of Representatives has unanimously approved H.R. 7177, a bipartisan bill introduced by Congressman Dale W. Strong, AL-05, to improve the organization of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama.
The legislation aims to redraw divisional boundaries within the district, assigning counties to divisions with the closest courthouse. The change seeks to eliminate unnecessary and burdensome travel expenses for residents.
“I will always look for ways to improve the lives of my constituents. That includes ensuring they are assigned to the federal courthouse nearest them to have their cases heard or to fulfill their civic duty and serve on a jury. I am pleased my colleagues joined me to promote the efficient administration of justice in North Alabama,” said Congressman Strong.
Under the bill, title 28 U.S.C. § 81 will be amended to consolidate the current seven divisions in the Northern District into five divisions. Counties assigned to the now-defunct Middle and Jasper Divisions will be transferred to the Eastern and Western Divisions. Case filings from these areas are already being handled by the adjacent divisions due to the absence of courthouses in the Middle and Jasper Divisions.
The bill has received broad support from the judicial community. It is backed by the Judicial Conference of the United States, the District Court for the Northern District of Alabama, the affected Defender Services, and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices. On March 12, 2024, the Judicial Conference formally adopted a position supporting the legislation, following its approval by the Judicial Council of the Eleventh Circuit.
The passage of H.R. 7177 marks a significant step toward streamlining court operations and reducing travel burdens for North Alabama residents. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.
