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LD 1022

An Act To Protect And Increase Access To Justice In Civil Legal Matters For Persons With Low Incomes

132nd Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Rick Bennett and 8 co-sponsors

Maine bill to expand civil legal aid funding for low-income residents failed by 19 votes, requiring re-introduction in a future legislative session.

Died in Possession of the Senate when the Legislature adjourned Sine Die and was PLACED IN THE LEGISLATIVE FILES. (DEAD)
#access #funding #legalservices
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · LD 1022

Legislative bill overview

LD 1022 aims to expand access to civil legal services for low-income Mainers by increasing funding, resources, or organizational support for legal aid organizations. The bill was designated as emergency legislation, requiring a two-thirds majority (97 votes) to pass but fell short with 78 supporting votes. It has been carried over to a future legislative session.

Why is this important

Low-income individuals often cannot afford attorneys for civil matters like housing, family law, benefits disputes, and contract issues, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and unable to enforce their legal rights. Expanding legal aid access can reduce homelessness, prevent wrongful evictions, improve child custody outcomes, and enable people to navigate the legal system effectively. This directly affects economic stability and social equity in Maine communities.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding source: Opponents likely questioned the bill's fiscal impact and whether new state funding or fees on attorneys/courts should finance expanded legal aid
  • Emergency designation dispute: The two-thirds requirement suggests disagreement over whether this warranted emergency status, potentially indicating partisan or fiscal concerns
  • Scope and definition: Disagreement may exist over which civil matters should qualify for legal aid coverage and income thresholds for eligibility
  • Implementation feasibility: Questions about whether legal aid organizations have capacity to absorb additional caseloads or if infrastructure investments were adequately addressed

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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