CA AB1981

Amends mileage reimbursement for jurors in civil and criminal cases to cover travel both going to and returning from court at $0.34 per mile after the first day, instead of only travel in one direction.

Requires all jurors and prospective jurors summoned to be provided access to existing public transit services at no cost, either through court partnerships with transit operators or through court-determined reimbursement up to $12 daily.

Exempts courts from transit access requirements if no public transit operator provides reasonably available service to the court facility, but requires courts to contact transit operators about potential new service options before making this determination.

Establishes a two-fiscal-year pilot program requiring the Judicial Council to study whether increased juror compensation and mileage reimbursement rates improve juror diversity and participation, with at least six trial courts participating including Alameda County.

Requires the Judicial Council to submit a report to the Legislature by September 1, 2026 detailing pilot program findings and recommendations for promoting juror diversity; the pilot program section expires January 1, 2027.