Chief Justice Releases Statement on Proposed Budget

January 9, 2015

Chief Justice Releases Statement on Proposed Budget

Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye

SAN FRANCISCO—California Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye issued the following statement in response to the Governor’s proposed 2015–2016 budget:

“I welcome the continued and additional investments by the Governor in his proposed budget for California’s judicial branch. There is a much-needed increase in the overall branch budget as well as a baseline increase for trial court operations.
 
“This will be the third year of reinvestment by the Governor in his proposed budget for the trial courts, with additional investments to help stabilize funding for the entire branch. The proposal is consistent with our multi-year approach to rebuild and create a more accessible and efficient court system to serve the people of California.

“After five years of cuts, this represents three years of new investments totaling $244.4 million. Throughout this period, our courts have made many difficult operational decisions, implemented a number of innovative service solutions and efficiencies that should be promoted statewide, and are adjusting to the new reserve process. 
 
“The Governor has also invested in new talent with his judicial appointments, and acknowledged in his budget proposal the need for ongoing investment in the state’s judicial branch infrastructure. These actions will help us deliver on the promise of physical, remote, and equal access to justice for 38 million Californians.  
 
“I look forward to continuing the dialogue and discussions with the Administration and the Legislature about the new investment needed for the courts to deliver timely and meaningful access to justice in California.”