UPDATE: Idaho courts are operating on limited hours today as state and county employees receive unexpected paid time off. Following a surprise announcement from President Donald Trump, who declared December 24 and 26 as paid holidays for federal workers, Idaho Governor Brad Little extended the same benefits to state employees. In response, Nez Perce County commissioners announced additional time off for county workers, further complicating court operations.
Today, only a couple of offices in north central Idaho are open part-time, causing a significant impact for those needing court services. The 2nd District Court will operate with a skeleton crew from 9 a.m. to noon. However, due to this last-minute schedule adjustment, some services, including the mental health court, will need to be rescheduled.
Judge Mark Monson acknowledged the challenges but expressed confidence that smaller cities can adapt without significant disruption. “I haven’t heard any grumbling about it,” he remarked, highlighting the positive reception of the unexpected additional time off.
In a critical move, the Idaho Supreme Court declared December 24 and 26 as “nonjudicial days,” allowing for an extension of deadlines for fines and filings, now due on Monday, December 29.
Across the region, county offices are adjusting their schedules. Latah County employees were already scheduled to have today off, but they will also be surprised with a day off on Friday. Meanwhile, Clearwater County offices will remain closed from December 24 to January 1, although emergency services will still operate.
In Idaho County, offices will operate today but close early at 2 p.m., while Lewis County will be open until noon.
As Idahoans navigate these changes, the surprise paid time off is being met with gratitude rather than frustration, underscoring the human impact of such decisions. Residents are encouraged to plan accordingly for limited court access today.
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops.
