Via press release on February 2, 2024, the Interbranch Commission applauded the Pennsylvania House of Representatives’ Judiciary Committee for conducting a hearing the day prior on critical jury service issues. The hearing addressed increased juror compensation, juror access to mental health services, and improved jury pool diversity. The hearing, accessible via YouTube, provided the Interbranch Commission and other stakeholders with the opportunity to engage in critical conversations with legislators and recommend legislative reforms consistent with best practices for jury service and selection.
Executive Director Maraleen Shields assisted in the coordination of testimony presented during the hearing. The hearing also featured the testimony of two members of the Interbranch Commission’s Jury Service Committee, Ms. Paula Hannaford-Agor and Mr. Patrick Martin. To learn more about the efforts the Commission has undertaken to improve access to jury service in Pennsylvania, please review our Jury Service Committee webpage.