LANSING -- Less judges in Michigan?  That's what the State Court Administrative Office proposed Wednesday.

The new report calls for the elimination of 49 judgeships in the state, including Court of Appeals judges by four and Circuit and District Court judges by 45, by not filling seats as they become vacant.

The changes are being recommended, in part, because population shifts have reduced caseloads in some districts.

Earlier attempts to eliminate judgeships have been resisted by opponents who say the cuts would overburden the remaining judges.  Lawmakers would have to approve the changes.

The recommended loss of positions would include two Marquette County judgeships, which is not expected to have an immediate impact on court operations or services.