The federal judiciary is facing a significant funding challenge, with two consecutive years of flat appropriations leaving the Judiciary in a precarious financial position.

A Call to Action

Two federal judges have urged Congress to provide a 9.3% increase in appropriations for the upcoming fiscal year to ensure that the Judiciary can perform its essential constitutional functions.

“**The lack of adequate funding is having a negative impact on our ability to effectively manage and support our courts, as well as our employees.”**
— _Federal Judges_

“A 9.3% increase in appropriations would help us meet the significant needs of the judiciary, including infrastructure upgrades, technology modernization, and recruitment and retention initiatives.”

Background on the Budget Request

The Judiciary’s budget request for FY2026 totals $9.4 billion, which is a 9.3% increase from the FY2025 appropriation.

• Achieving this funding level would enable the judiciary to invest in critical infrastructure upgrades and technology modernization.
• Recruitment and retention initiatives would also be supported, including enhanced salaries and benefits for judges and staff.
• Funding would be allocated to support the courts’ operations, including transportation, utilities, and maintenance costs.

According to the U.S. Courts website, the budget request can be viewed at http://www.uscourts.gov/data-news/judiciary-news/2025/05/14/judicial-branch-seeks-94-billion-fy-2026-budget-request.