Chief Justice Mulligan Responds to Governor's Budget Vetoes

Message to Trial Court Employees

 

          Yesterday Governor Patrick signed a budget that vetoed $11.45M of the Trial Court FY08 budget approved by the Legislature. I immediately contacted Senate President Murray and Speaker DiMasi to request an override of the Governor'svetoes. I also continue to reach out to other leaders in the House and Senate to support the Trial Court.

 

          The Trial Court had requested a modest budget increase for FY08 given the fact that the vast majority of our expenses are non-discretionary. The budget approved by the Legislature represented a 2.8 percent increase over FY07 but the Governor's vetoes reduce the increase to seven-tenths of one percent, as compared to overall state budget growth of 4.42 percent.

 

          I would like to point out that the Governor's statement indicated that the Trial Court would revert $4.3M to the general fund for FY07. Case-related expenses for guardians ad litem and court reporters make it difficult to predict whether some reversion will occur. However, as of today our reversion amount is less than $2 million from which payroll taxes, and other bills will continue to be paid through the end of August.

 

          I urge you to remain focused on the important work of providing access to justice across the Commonwealth. I commend your tremendous service in ensuring that justice is available to all. Never underestimate the impact of your efforts in improving the lives of the many citizens who come to our courthouses each day.

 

          Please be assured that we will continue to advocate vigorously to the Legislature, which traditionally has supported the courts, to respond to the vetoes with an override. I am optimistic that the Legislature will recognize the importance of adequate funding for the judicial branch of government.

 

 

 

 

 

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