Supreme Court Justice Circuit Riding Act

This legislation seeks to revive the historical practice of Supreme Court justices serving as judges on federal circuit courts, a tradition that ended in 1911. The bill's findings highlight that this practice would expose justices to diverse legal issues and the American public, potentially restoring public trust in the judiciary, especially given modern travel conveniences and a reduced Supreme Court docket.

The core of the bill amends title 28, United States Code, to mandate the allotment of Supreme Court justices to circuits. Each justice would be required to sit on at least one panel of a U.S. Court of Appeals for a minimum of 10 days of oral argument annually, primarily during the Court's recess period from July 1 to October 1 or during vacation. Specific rules govern this service, including limiting one justice per panel and prohibiting participation in en banc rehearings.

Furthermore, the bill includes a crucial disqualification provision, preventing a Supreme Court justice from considering a matter at the high court if they previously participated in it as a circuit justice. It also provides for the reimbursement of reasonable travel and lodging expenses for justices and their accompanying staff. The Chief Justice, in consultation with the Judicial Conference, is tasked with issuing regulations to implement these changes within 180 days of enactment.