As Madison County’s population increases by the thousands each year, the county justice system is being swamped by court cases.

It hasn’t helped that much of the work in the 23rd circuit that covers the county was also halted during the Covid-19 pandemic, as it was nearly everywhere else.

But relief appears to be on the way with the addition of one circuit court judge and one district judge thanks to a bill passed by the Alabama Legislature that is awaiting Gov. Kay Ivey’s signature.

The judgeships would be filled at the 2024 General Election.

“The passage of SB 39 is a major milestone for the Alabama judiciary and will provide much needed relief for case backlogs,” said State Sen. Sam Givhan of Huntsville, who introduced the legislation.