Bill > LD1022

This bill aims to increase funding and support for civil legal services in Maine, particularly for low-income residents. It establishes an annual minimum appropriation of $9,500,000 to the Maine Civil Legal Services Fund starting in fiscal year 2025-26, which will be distributed quarterly to organizations providing legal assistance. The bill recognizes that many Maine residents (approximately 356,500 people with incomes below 200% of the federal poverty level) face civil legal challenges without adequate representation, which can result in the loss of essential rights and resources. To ensure ongoing support and accountability, the bill requires the Legislature's judiciary committee to hold public hearings every two years beginning in 2026 to assess the current state of civil legal services, including evaluating the number of civil legal aid attorneys relative to the low-income population. The committee must then make recommendations to the Governor and appropriations committee about potential increases in funding to sustain and improve access to justice. Additionally, the Civil Legal Services Fund Commission is now mandated to submit an annual report detailing the types of cases handled by recipient organizations. The bill is structured as an emergency measure, emphasizing the critical nature of providing legal support to vulnerable populations and maintaining an effective judicial system.

Justice

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1022&snum=132