Louisiana House Bill HR93

Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/1/19
• Passed: 5/2/19

Caption

Recognizes May 1, 2019, as Civil Legal Aid Day at the state capitol

Impact

The resolution underlines the necessity of civil legal aid by citing statistics that suggest a significant portion of the Louisiana population will require assistance. It highlights the work of the Acadiana Legal Service Corporation and the Southeast Louisiana Legal Services Corporation, which together provided legal help to nearly 49,000 people in 2018. This support demonstrates the importance of civil legal aid in communities, helping vulnerable groups such as veterans, victims of domestic violence, and parents seeking child support. The resolution calls for a collective responsibility among all stakeholders in the justice system to ensure equitable access to legal services.

Summary

House Resolution 93 aims to recognize May 1, 2019, as Civil Legal Aid Day at the Louisiana State Capitol. The resolution emphasizes the critical role that civil legal aid plays in providing access to justice for indigent citizens, who often cannot afford legal representation in civil matters. It acknowledges that access to legal services is a fundamental component of a fair justice system, and highlights the efforts of organizations that provide legal aid to low-income residents in Louisiana. The resolution also brings attention to the challenges faced by these organizations, especially in a state that lacks dedicated funding for civil legal aid programs.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HR93 is largely supportive, as it recognizes the necessity of civil legal aid for maintaining a just society. Legislative discussions likely reflect appreciation for the work done by legal aid organizations, with gratitude expressed toward the legal professionals who volunteer their services. However, underlying the resolution is the criticism of the lack of state funding for these essential services, indicating an area of contention among legislators about the need for more robust financial support for civil legal aid in Louisiana.

Contention

While HR93 does not propose any changes to state law, it aims to raise awareness and advocate for increased support for civil legal aid organizations. The contention revolves around the existing lack of funding and systemic support for legal services in civil matters, which is crucial for low-income citizens facing legal challenges. The resolution points to the high poverty rate in Louisiana and the significant demand for legal aid, calling for a collaborative effort to address the gaps in access to justice.