Statement of ABA President William H. Neukom Re: Senate Vote to Increase Legal Services Corporation Funding

CHICAGO, October, 18, 2007 — Every American should have access to the legal system, not just those who can afford it. The Senate’s decision to restore $42 million to the Legal Service Corporation’s funding is a major victory for millions of low-income citizens, who need legal assistance to safeguard their health, housing and other basic necessities.

The American Bar Association thanks the more than 60 senators who expressed strong support for a significant increase in LSC funding, in particular Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.), Tom Harkin (D-Iowa), Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.), Gordon  Smith (R-Ore.), Pete Domenici (R-N.M.), Robert Byrd (D-W.Va.) and Thad Cochran (R-Miss).