Opposing the Juries (Age of Excusal) Amendment Bill
This page is here to inform with care — not to inflame. If you're over 65 or care for someone who is, this bill affects you.
New Zealand law currently allows those aged 65 and over to decline jury service without needing to explain why. This bill proposes to raise that to 72. Here's why that change matters — and why it should not proceed.
What the Bill Proposes
- Raises the age of automatic jury excusal from 65 to 72: You would now have to apply to opt out — no more default dignity.
- Imposes new administrative burdens on older adults: Including paperwork, deadlines, and appeals — regardless of health or capacity.
- Reduces elder choice: Transforming jury duty from an option into an obligation during years often marked by caregiving or chronic illness.
Why It’s a Step Backwards
- Ignores medical realities: Chronic illness, fatigue, mobility limits, cognitive change — all become more common post-65.
- Risks unfair trials: Reluctant, unwell, or pressured jurors can distort deliberation — this hurts the justice system too.
- Disrespects retirement: This phase of life should be honoured with choice, not bureaucratic hurdles.
- Silences the vulnerable: Those least able to navigate exemption processes are most likely to be affected — especially isolated, rural, or low-income elders.
The Person Behind the Bill
Carl Bates is a National Party MP and former CEO with a background in business governance.
- He entered Parliament in 2023 representing the Whanganui electorate.
- Previously led the Institute of Directors in New Zealand and South Africa.
- Has written extensively on boardroom performance and business leadership.
His bill reflects a corporate mindset — valuing extended productivity over personal autonomy. But public service isn’t business. Civic duty must respect health, family, and the arc of a life already lived.
A Closing Thought
“Let’s honour our elders with respect, not mandates. Civic participation must come with compassion — not coercion.”
— Ukes Baha
This is not a radical view. It’s a reminder: rights that protect the vulnerable should not be removed lightly. We all age. Let’s ensure dignity remains part of the law.
"Human beings are members of a whole,
In creation of one essence and soul.
If one member is afflicted with pain,
Other members uneasy will remain.
If you have no sympathy for human pain,
The name of human you cannot retain."
— Saadi Shirazi, Gulistan