Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota Senate Bill SF4403

Introduced
2/29/24  

Caption

State Board of Legal Aid establishment

Impact

The introduction of the State Board of Civil Legal Aid will centralize the governance of civil legal aid services. This move is expected to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of legal assistance programs by establishing clear guidelines for funding and operational standards. The bill identifies a significant proportion of funding that will be allocated to programs helping farmers and small businesses facing financial difficulties, ensuring that the particular needs of these groups are addressed. Furthermore, by formalizing the advisory committee’s role, the bill encourages stakeholder participation in the oversight process.

Summary

SF4403 aims to establish the State Board of Civil Legal Aid in Minnesota, which will oversee the distribution of civil legal assistance funds to qualified programs. This legislation is designed to enhance access to legal services for individuals who are financially unable to afford such assistance. The bill proposes amendments to existing statutes, specifically targeting the organization and operation of legal aid services in Minnesota. It articulates the criteria for funding distribution and identifies eligible clients, emphasizing support for lower-income residents and individuals facing financial distress.

Contention

While the bill has the potential to significantly expand access to legal services for eligible clients, there are points of contention among legislators and interest groups concerning funding adequacy and organizational details. Critics argue that without sufficient funding and a clear operational framework, the effectiveness of the State Board of Civil Legal Aid could be compromised. Additionally, discussions may arise regarding the equity of fund distribution across different geographic and socioeconomic backgrounds, highlighting the ongoing debate about how best to serve vulnerable populations.

Companion Bills

MN HF3860

Similar To State Board of Civil Legal Aid created.

Previously Filed As

MN HF3860

State Board of Civil Legal Aid created.

MN HF5245

Supreme Court and district courts funding and related policy changes provided, State Board of Civil Legal Aid established, Safe at Home program certification modified, restorative process provided for certain acts, and money appropriated.

MN HF5216

Judiciary, public safety, and corrections supplemental budget bill.

MN HF1039

State Board of Civil Legal Aid legislative report required.

MN SF1987

State Board of Civil Legal Aid report to legislature requirement

MN SF3770

Department of Children, Youth and Families statutory infrastructure establishment

MN SF3936

Transfer of duties from the Department of Human Services to the Department of Direct Care and Treatment, executive board duties and rulemaking authority establishment, and appropriations

MN SF839

Public safety innovation board establishment; community safety grants and law enforcement grants and policy establishment; appropriating money

MN SF1642

Statewide Office of Appellate Counsel and Training establishment

MN SF626

Department of Direct Care and Treatment establishment

Similar Bills

MN HF1638

Nursery and plant protection provisions modified.

MN SF2550

Nursery and plant protection provisions modification

MN HF4135

Agricultural fertilizer research fee and program extended by one year, drinking-water fee established for nitrogen fertilizer and private well drinking-water assistance program, testing of biosolids for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances required, reports required, and money appropriated.

MN SF4311

Agricultural fertilizer research fee and program extension; drinking-water fee for nitrogen and a private well drinking-water assistance program establishment; testing of biosolids for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances requirement; appropriating money

MN SF5435

Mineral taxes, property taxes and related provisions modification; transfers and distributions of proceeds authorization; revenue bonds authorization

MN HF1587

Agriculture policy bill.

MN SF3208

Net proceeds tax conversion into a gross proceeds tax

MN SF73

Vehicle services fee dedication to the highway user tax distribution fund, driver and vehicle operating account repeal, and appropriation