FL H5011

Creates section 25.025, F.S., authorizing Supreme Court justices who permanently reside outside Leon County to designate an official headquarters in their district of residence at a district court of appeal courthouse, county courthouse, or other appropriate facility for use as private chambers.

Makes eligible justices with designated headquarters entitled to subsistence allowance at a rate set by the Chief Justice for days spent at the Supreme Court Building and reimbursement for transportation expenses between headquarters and the Supreme Court Building, subject to appropriated fund availability.

Prohibits the Supreme Court from using state funds to lease space for justices' official headquarters and specifies counties are not required to provide courthouse space, though counties may voluntarily enter into agreements with the Supreme Court.

Reduces the number of circuit judges in the Ninth Judicial Circuit from 44 to 43 and in the Twelfth Judicial Circuit from 22 to 21.

Reduces the number of county court judges in Citrus County from 2 to 1 and in Flagler County from 2 to 1, effective July 1, 2019.