Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of my amendment to promote access to justice policies within the Department of Justice. As a former pro bona counsel, I know how important legal representation is for the most vulnerable members of society. My amendment, which would reduce and increase funds in this division by the same amount, aims to bring attention to the fact that the Department of Justice should spend appropriated funds to improve access to justice in the criminal and civil systems for all Americans. Carrying out this goal requires coordination throughout the Department in its litigation, policy activity, and grant making. This task was historically accomplished by the Department's Office of Access to Justice, an office that was eliminated by the Trump administration and I hope is re-established soon. In the meantime, the Department should reinvigorate its statement of interest and amicus brief practice reflecting focusing on the Sixth Amendment right to counsel to ensure it is guaranteed at the state and local level in the criminal context. In the civil context, the Department should accelerate its work to raise federal agencies' awareness of how civil legal aid helps advance a wide range of federal objectives including improved access to health care and housing, education and employment, family stability and public safety.…”