AUGUSTA - The Legislature's Taxation Committee voted unanimously on Tuesday to advance a bipartisan bill sponsored by Rep. Allison Hepler, D-Woolwich, that would certify up to five eligible attorneys to claim the Access to Justice Income Tax Credit.
The bill, LD 978, aims to address the unmet needs of individuals who need an attorney but cannot access one in their community. According to the most recent data from the Maine Board of Overseers of the Bar, nearly 80% of Maines practicing lawyers are located in just four counties, Cumberland, Kennebec, Penobscot and York, with more than 50% located in Cumberland County alone. This limits access to justice for Maine citizens living in rural communities who are in need of legal services.
The bill would incentivize five attorneys, chosen by the Supreme Judicial Court, to practice law and perform pro bono legal services in underserved areas for at least 5 years through a nonrefundable credit of up to $6,000.
The bill received support from the judicial branch and the University of Maine Law School.
"One of my priorities this session was to submit and support legislation that attracts and keeps young people to Maine," said Hepler. "By expanding opportunities for attorneys, we can incentivize recent law school graduates to live and work here in our state. But more importantly, my bill will improve people's access to justice."
The measure faces further votes in the House and Senate in the coming weeks.
Hepler is serving her second term in the Maine House and sits on both the Committees on Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and Marine Resources. She represents the towns of Arrowsic, Dresden, Georgetown, Phippsburg, Woolwich and part of Richmond.
Contact:
Jackie Merrill [Hepler], c. 812-1111