Press Releases

Today, the House passed Reps. Celeste Maloy (UT-02) and John Curtis’ (UT-03) bill – H.R. 8666 – to authorize additional federal case locations in Moab and Monticello, Utah.

The Central Division of Utah’s existing places of holding court include Ogden, Salt Lake City, Provo, and St. George. Residents of Southern Utah are regularly excused from federal jury duty due to burdensome travel requirements. H.R. 8666 will amend Title 28 of the United States Code to authorize holding court for the Central Division of Utah in Moab and Monticello.

“Without this bill authorizing court proceedings in Moab and Monticello, southeastern Utahns must drive several hours to appear before a federal judge or serve jury duty. I’m glad the House passed this bill allowing the Central Division of the District of Utah to hold court in these rural areas, which would save Utahns time and money,” said Rep. Maloy.

“Law and order is a cornerstone of the Constitution, and ensuring that all Utahns have equal access to justice is essential. This bill addresses the challenges that southeastern Utah residents face, harkening back to the values of our pioneer ancestors who laid the foundation of our great state. Just as they built communities, we must ensure that the justice system serves all Utahns, no matter where they live. With this bill’s passage, we can ensure that rural Utahns have fair opportunities for a speedy trial and can fulfill their civic duties without undue burden,” said Rep. Curtis.

The Judicial Conference of the United States wrote in support of H.R. 8666 here.

Full text of the legislation can be found here.