State Senator Andrew McDonald
October 27, 2009
McDonald Honored for His Commitment to Protecting Connecticut Legal Services
MIDDLETOWN — State Senator Andrew J. McDonald (D-Stamford), who is co-chairman of the legislature’s Judiciary Committee, will be honored here this evening at the annual meeting of Connecticut Legal Services, Inc. for his role in protecting funding for this vital public service at a time of great economic upheaval in the state.
Connecticut Legal Services is the largest provider of legal aid services to low-income people in Connecticut, providing legal help to low-income households in crisis who need a lawyer to solve urgent life issues.
Funding for legal services dropped catastrophically during the past year as a result of the state and national economic crisis. Sen. McDonald was a key architect in legislative efforts to address the funding crisis, according to Legal Services Executive Director Steve Eppler-Epstein.
“We could not have provided the services low-income people need in this economic crisis were it not for Senator McDonald’s help,” Eppler-Epstein said. “There was broad bi-partisan support by lawmakers and the governor to do something about the legal aid crisis, but it was Senator McDonald who brought these elected officials together and got it done.”
Legal aid programs still face a funding gap, and the staff at Connecticut Legal Services must take two unpaid days each month. But the support provided by Sen. McDonald and the legislative process has stabilized funding and avoided further chaos at a time when the services are so badly needed, Eppler-Epstein said.
Sen. McDonald said he is grateful for the recognition by Legal Services and for the work they do in Connecticut.
“Fair and equal representation before the court should never be reduced to a simple matter of dollars and cents, but too often that is the case for some of the poorest citizens in our state,” Sen. McDonald said. “Legal Services is critical in leveling the playing field. I’m glad to have played a role in their continued success.” The text of tonight’s award reads:
In appreciation of Senator Andrew J. McDonald Your remarkable leadership was essential in addressing the legal services funding crisis, so that low-income people continue to receive urgently-needed legal help in a time of great need. Presented on behalf of the board, staff, and clients of Connecticut Legal Services, Inc. October 27, 2009.
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Senator McDonald’s |
Listing of Senator McDonald’s recent press releases and a Press Kit with official head shots and bio. |
Press Aide Larry Cook |
