Arizona 2026 Regular Session

Arizona Senate Bill SB1195

Caption

appropriation; legal assistance services aid

Impact

The bill has significant implications for state laws regarding civil legal assistance. By appropriating these funds, SB1195 aims to improve the accessibility of legal services across Arizona. It mandates the Department of Economic Security to report annually on the provision of legal assistance, detailing the number of cases handled, areas of law addressed, and demographic information on recipients of assistance. This structured reporting aims to enhance transparency and accountability, ensuring that the funds are utilized effectively in meeting the legal needs of disadvantaged populations.

Summary

SB1195 is a legislative proposal introduced in the Arizona Senate that seeks to appropriate $10,000,000 from the state general fund for the fiscal year 2026-2027. This funding is directed to the Department of Economic Security to facilitate the coordination and delivery of free, statewide civil legal assistance services provided by nonprofit organizations. The bill emphasizes the importance of accessible legal aid for individuals in need, especially for those facing civil legal matters without the capacity to afford legal representation. It reflects a commitment to enhance the legal resources available to the public through structured support for nonprofit legal services.

Contention

While the bill generally garners support due to its potential benefits for low-income individuals needing legal help, there may be points of contention regarding the allocation of state funds. Critics may question the efficacy and reach of nonprofit organizations in providing these services and may express concerns about whether the appropriated funds will adequately cover the demand for legal assistance. Additionally, there could be debates on the ongoing funding aspect, as the bill intends for the appropriation to be considered ongoing, raising questions about future budgetary commitments and prioritization of state resources.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AZ HB2643

Appropriations; child care assistance

AZ SB1191

Appropriation; DES; legal aid

AZ SB1485

Appropriation; housing assistance; elderly.

AZ HB2350

Appropriation; housing assistance; elderly

AZ SB1646

Appropriation; child care assistance

AZ HB2962

General appropriations; FY2026

AZ SB1735

2025-2026; general appropriations act

AZ SB1079

Appropriations; victims of crime; services

AZ HB2947

General appropriations act; 2025-2026

AZ SB1483

Home and community-based services; appropriation

Similar Bills

MD HB390

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD SB282

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB319

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

PA HB1330

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of certain agencies of the Executive Department for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.

PA SB160

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

PA SB280

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

PA SB1161

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.