Chief Justice Releases Statement on Proposed Budget

January 7, 2016

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 2016–2017 budget:

"We welcome the Governor’s proposed budget for the judicial branch as it would provide $146.3 million in crucial new funding for our courts. Much of the new funding would be focused on innovations to benefit court users at all levels of our court system. The proposed budget reflects a steady but cautious new investment in the judicial branch since fiscal year 2012-2013. The budget contains 'proposals to support efforts by the Judicial Council to improve court operations and increase access.'”

"In addition to supporting local as well as branchwide innovations, the Governor’s budget would provide funding for statewide infrastructure needs, language access expansion in civil proceedings, and funding to assist trial courts facing increased workload related to sentencing reforms. 

"The Governor’s proposed budget would help make courts more accessible, efficient, and equitable for court users. The Judicial Council looks forward to working with the Administration and Legislature as we seek to address state budget issues affecting access to justice for the people of California."