Chief justice seeks end to furloughs

SALEM — Oregon's Supreme Court chief justice says he'd like to see an end to mandatory unpaid furloughs for employees, restoration of circuit-court staff positions and funding for a new electronic records system that will replace one that is frustratingly out of date.

Chief Justice Thomas Balmer says he will make the requests in the Judicial Department's budget request, which goes to lawmakers.

Speaking to a group of Marion County lawyers, Balmer says Oregon courts are “sturdy” but need financial help to keep them working. Budget cuts have hit courts hard, with some operating just four days a week.

Balmer oversees the caseload of the state's highest court and is responsible for the two-year budget for 1,600 employees in Oregon's 36 counties, divided into 27 judicial districts. .