Texas Access to Justice Gets Funding Boost After Legislative Session

The 88th Texas legislative session included $3.7 million in extra funding for civil legal services targeted to youth dealing with pandemic-related mental health issues. However, lawmakers declined to provide funding for proposal to use remote technology to deliver legal services through kiosk-based centers.

The Legislature also passed two bills that will provide an additional source of funding for pro bono civil legal services and will benefit low-income individuals who face language barriers in the courtroom. Natalie Posgate goes into detail on each, as well as the storied history of how pro bono work became a mainstay in the state’s budget.