Judicial branch reducing juror payments
by The Associated Press

ST. PAUL -- The state of Minnesota is cutting the daily payment for jurors in half.

Starting on August 4, the per diem for jurors will be reduced from $20 to $10. The Minnesota Judicial Branch says it's one of many cost-cutting moves made necessary by a $19 million budget shortfall in the state court system.

Other budget reductions including abolishing or not filling 9 percent of staff positions, closing court public counters for a half day per week in three judicial districts and terminating or reducing funding for a number of court services.

Members of juries will continue to be reimbursed for mileage and day care expenses.