Supporters Tell Committee SB137 Would Ease Jury Burden for Montanans Aged 75 and Older

Sen. Jeremy Trevis opened the hearing on Senate Bill 137, which would allow prospective jurors aged 75 and older to be excused on request. Trevis framed the bill as an opt‑out provision intended to remove an unnecessary administrative burden from older residents who may have difficulty traveling to courthouses in large rural districts.

Multiple proponents described practical difficulties that arise with jury summons in rural Montana. Pamela Harada, 79, said older residents want to perform civic duties but that travel, mobility and frequent restroom needs make service burdensome; she noted many states already provide an age‑based exemption. Elizabeth Ball, a district court clerk, said current permanent excusal requires physician certification and that an age‑based opt‑out would simplify the process for older people who feel uncomfortable asking physicians for documentation.

There were no opponents on record and committee members asked questions about whether the provision was intended to be optional (an opt‑out) — witnesses confirmed that the measure allows an excusal on request and does not compel people to be excused. Clerks noted jury management systems already capture dates of birth, making administrative verification straightforward.

The hearing concluded with proponents urging the committee to approve an opt‑out that respects older citizens while preserving the right of those who wish to serve to remain in the pool.