The Alliance for Equal Justice (SEO RELEVANT)* September 2009 King County Funding :: Alliance for Equal Justice

Friday, July 30, 2010

 

Legal Aid Funding at Risk in King County

 
King County faced a general fund shortfall of over $90 million last year. Budget decisions for 2009 resulted in program cuts and “lifeboat” (six month) funding for many human service organizations, including legal aid programs. This year the budget situation is similarly grim– the County currently faces a deficit of over $56 million. Again, human service and legal aid programs in King County are at great risk of reduced or eliminated funding.

The King County Alliance for Human Services is lobbying the council to reserve 3.2% of its general fund (about $22 million) for human services. In response, the King County Council’s Committee on Law, Justice, Health and Human Services voted unanimously on August 25 to recommend that the budget committee dedicate “at least 1%” of the general fund to human services in 2010. This decision was a direct result of the community’s efforts to influence the Council’s budget priorities. Although 1% of the general fund is not enough to fund critically important programs, the recommendation is a promising start to the budget process.

Alliance organizations impacted by the King County Budget decisions are working together to protect funding for legal aid. On August 31, seven Alliance organizations sent a letter to King County Executive Kurt Triplett, copying every member of the Council. The letter describes how members of the Alliance for Equal Justice work closely together to provide invaluable legal services to struggling King County residents, and ultimately saves county dollars.

You Can Help

The final budget must be released by the end of November. Now is the critical time for King County residents to make a difference for legal aid. Before the Council makes final decisions about the 2010 budget, the public will have a chance to speak to its priorities at one of six public hearings set in different regions of King County. Residents can also contact the County Executive and Council Members by email or through online testimony.

The Equal Justice Coalition will keep you informed of developments, and make sure you are aware of every chance to take action, and give you the tools you need to stand up for legal aid. Watch for email alerts!

Alliance Organizations Impacted by King County Budget Decisions