Federal Spending Bill Allocates $705 Million to Security for Federal Judges
March 14, 2023

The allocation of $705 million to security for federal judges in the federal spending bill means that the government will provide additional resources to enhance security measures for federal judges across the United States. The funds will be used to improve physical security measures such as securing courthouse entrances, installing cameras, and increasing personnel, including hiring additional security personnel and providing training for existing personnel.
The allocation of funds follows several high-profile attacks on federal judges, including the shooting at a federal courthouse in New Jersey in 2020 and the shooting at a federal courthouse in Dallas in 2019. These attacks have raised concerns about the safety of federal judges and the need for increased security measures.
The funding will be distributed by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts to individual courts based on their security needs. The funds will be used to improve the security of both judges and court staff, with the goal of preventing future attacks and ensuring the safety of those who work in the federal court system.
Overall, the allocation of $705 million to security for federal judges is an important investment in the safety and security of the federal court system. It reflects a commitment by the government to ensure that federal judges and court staff can carry out their important work without fear of violence or intimidation.
Judiciary Requests More Security Funds
The judiciary has requested more security funds from the government to improve the safety and security of federal judges and court staff across the United States. The request for additional funds comes in response to several high-profile attacks on federal judges in recent years, which have raised concerns about the safety of those who work in the federal court system.
The judiciary is seeking an increase in funding for the U.S. Marshals Service, which is responsible for providing security for federal judges and other court personnel. The funds would be used to hire additional marshals and security personnel, as well as to improve physical security measures such as securing courthouse entrances and installing cameras.
The request for additional security funds also includes funding for training and resources to help judges and court staff better understand and manage threats to their safety. This includes training on how to identify and respond to threats, as well as access to counseling and other support services.
The judiciary’s request for additional security funds underscores the importance of ensuring the safety and security of those who work in the federal court system. It reflects a commitment by the judiciary to take proactive steps to prevent future attacks and to provide the resources and support necessary to keep judges and court staff safe.
What Will Funds Be Used For?
The funds requested by the judiciary for security purposes will be used for a variety of purposes aimed at improving the safety and security of federal judges and court staff. These purposes may include:
- Hiring additional security personnel: The funds may be used to hire additional U.S. Marshals and security personnel to provide physical protection to judges and court staff in and around courthouses.
- Physical security improvements: The funds may also be used to improve physical security measures such as installing cameras, reinforcing courthouse entrances, and adding bullet-resistant glass to courtrooms.
- Training: The funds may be used to provide training to judges and court staff on how to identify and respond to security threats. This may include training on recognizing suspicious behavior, responding to bomb threats, and using self-defense techniques.
- Technology: The funds may also be used to invest in new security technologies, such as biometric scanners or improved alarm systems, to help prevent security breaches.
- Counseling and support services: The funds may be used to provide counseling and other support services to judges and court staff who may experience trauma or stress as a result of security incidents or threats.
Overall, the funds requested by the judiciary will be used to enhance the safety and security of federal judges and court staff, with the goal of preventing future attacks and ensuring that the federal court system can continue to operate safely and effectively.