Bill > LD1691

This bill establishes the "Access to Justice Loan Program" in Maine, administered by the Finance Authority of Maine (Authority), to encourage attorneys to practice in "underserved areas," which are defined as regions with an insufficient number of lawyers to meet the legal needs of residents. The program offers two main avenues for support: law school students demonstrating financial need can receive loans of up to $25,000 per year for up to four years, with 25% of the loan forgiven for each year they commit to practicing in an underserved area after graduation; and recent law school graduates who are licensed or eligible to be licensed in Maine and have outstanding law school loans can receive up to $25,000 per year for up to four years to help repay their existing debt, provided they commit to practicing in an underserved area. The bill also mandates the University of Maine School of Law to establish a "rural practice track" to support students from and interested in practicing in underserved areas, including providing housing stipends and internship opportunities, and requires a report on its implementation by January 1, 2026. A dedicated "Access to Justice Loan Program Revolving Fund" will be created to manage program funds, including loan repayments and other contributions, with a small appropriation of $500 for each of the next two fiscal years.

Education

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1691&snum=132