Summary#
This federal bill designates the second week of May each year as “Jury Duty Appreciation Week.” It is a symbolic observance. It does not change jury selection, pay, or legal duties. It has two clauses: a short title and the designation of the week.
- Creates an annual national observance in the second week of May (Clause 2).
- Makes no changes to jury service rules, employer obligations, or court procedures (Clauses 1–2).
- Adds no new rights, penalties, or programs (Clauses 1–2).
- States goals in the preamble: recognize jurors’ work, support juror well-being, and educate the public and institutions about jury duty (Preamble).
What it means for you#
- Households (current or future jurors): You may see public statements or educational messages during the second week of May each year. Your duty to serve, eligibility, and compensation do not change (Clause 2).
- Workers and employers: No new leave rules or job protections are created. Existing federal or provincial rules remain as they are (Clauses 1–2).
- Businesses and nonprofits: No reporting, compliance, or cost requirements are added (Clauses 1–2).
- Provinces, territories, and courts: No mandates are imposed. The bill does not alter provincial control over jury administration (Clauses 1–2).
- Federal government and agencies: The bill permits recognition of the week but does not require activities or spending (Clause 2).
Expenses#
Estimated net cost: Data unavailable.
- No fiscal note identified. Data unavailable.
- The bill contains no appropriations, fees, or tax changes (Clauses 1–2).
- The bill does not require any program, campaign, or event spending (Clauses 1–2).
Proponents' View#
- Recognition underscores that jury duty is a vital part of the justice system and democracy (Preamble).
- A national week can highlight jurors’ well-being and mental health as important to the justice system’s functioning (Preamble).
- A recurring observance can help educate citizens, organizations, the justice system, and governments about issues jurors face (Preamble).
- Designating a specific week creates a predictable time each year for communication and outreach (Clause 2; assumes institutions will choose to participate).
Opponents' View#
- The bill is symbolic and does not improve juror compensation, mental health services, or workplace protections (Clauses 1–2).
- It may shift attention from substantive reforms within provincial jurisdiction over juries; the bill itself does not change those laws (Clauses 1–2).
- Without funding or requirements, observance activities may be uneven or minimal, limiting impact (Clauses 1–2; assumes participation is optional).
- The bill includes no metrics, reporting, or evaluation to show effects on juror well-being or public understanding (Clauses 1–2).