Judge advocating for bill that would excuse jurors 75 or older if they request it

Christian Circuit Judge John Atkins is advocating for state lawmakers to approve legislation excusing anyone 75 or older who doesn’t want to serve on jury duty.

Judge Atkins told local media Wednesday morning he’s asked state Senator Whitney Westerfield to work on legislation that would make being 75 or older an appropriate excuse for jury duty if the individual wishes not to serve.

Senator Westerfield says he’s drafted a bill and expects it to be filed in the House this session.

Judge Atkins acknowledged the fate of the bill in this short session is uncertain, but he hopes it will become law sooner rather than later.