Following months of zealous advocacy on behalf of adequate funding for our
justice system, Boston Bar Association President Lisa C. Goodheart issued the
following statement:
Amid serious concerns about inadequate funding for our justice system,
the Boston Bar Association is pleased to report that the Massachusetts House of
Representatives last night approved a budget providing additional funds for the
Massachusetts Trial Courts and for the Massachusetts Legal Assistance
Corporation (MLAC), the primary source of civil legal aid in the
Commonwealth. The continued advocacy of BBA members played an important
role in spotlighting significant unmet needs.
A consolidated amendment provided an additional $6 million to the Trial
Court, bringing its House appropriation up to $560 million.
The House
budget also provided an additional $1 million for civil legal services, bringing
the MLAC appropriation up to $12 million.
There are hurdles yet to be cleared. In the coming weeks, the Senate will be
considering its own budget recommendations. As the budgeting process continues,
the Boston Bar Association will continue to press for adequate funding for our
justice system."