Louisiana Senate Bill SR105

Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/1/19
• Passed: 5/1/19

Caption

Designates Wednesday, May 1, 2019, as Civil Legal Aid Day at the Louisiana State Capitol.

Impact

The resolution underscores Louisiana's unique position among states, as it currently has no statewide appropriation or dedicated funding to support civil legal aid providers. By recognizing Civil Legal Aid Day, the resolution calls attention to the financial strain on legal service organizations and the essential role they play in ensuring justice for low-income residents, including veterans, victims of domestic violence, and families facing foreclosure. It emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts to improve access to justice for all citizens, regardless of their financial situations.

Summary

Senate Resolution No. 105, introduced by Senator Lafleur, designates May 1, 2019, as Civil Legal Aid Day at the Louisiana State Capitol. The Resolution highlights the critical importance of civil legal aid for indigent citizens, who often lack access to legal representation in civil matters that can lead to life-changing consequences. It aims to raise awareness about the ongoing need for legal services among Louisiana's low-income population, with a significant poverty rate that leaves many without essential legal support.

Sentiment

There is a supportive sentiment surrounding SR105 as it aims to highlight the importance of legal aid services for vulnerable populations. The proposed designation reflects a broader acknowledgment of systemic inequalities in access to the court system. Advocates for civil legal aid, including Louisiana's legal service providers, view the resolution as a step toward fostering a more equitable legal landscape, underscoring that access to legal representation should not be limited by one's ability to pay.

Contention

While the bill itself is not controversial, discussions around civil legal aid funding in Louisiana often reveal tensions related to state priorities and budgeting. Critics warn that without adequate investment in legal aid, Louisiana's indigent citizens will continue to face significant barriers in accessing the justice system. The resolution serves as a reminder of the ongoing necessity for legislative support to implement meaningful change and to address the legal needs of the poorest confines within the state.