February 22, 2013 - Oregon State Bar

OSB Board of Governors Resolution in Support of
Stable Funding for the Court System
Whereas, the State of Oregon continues to experience severe revenue shortfalls;
Whereas, courts play an essential constitutional role in society preserving the rule of law,
ensuring that government acts within the law, and resolving disputes affecting families in crisis,
public safety, and business transactions that support Oregon’s economy;
Whereas, Oregonians have a constitutional right to justice administered in state courts
“completely and without delay;”
Whereas, in response to revenue shortfalls, the legislature has dramatically reduced the Judicial
Department budget, resulting in statewide and local court closures due to staff reductions and
mandatory furloughs, delays in case processing and severely reduced public services and access
to justice in Oregon;
Whereas, further reductions to the Judicial Department budget may end full service courts in
some areas of the state;
Whereas, courts are a core function of government, providing services that are not available
otherwise through the private sector or non-governmental organizations;
Whereas, legislators rely on the views of their constituents and public input in setting priorities;
Whereas, effective public input depends upon public awareness of the need for priority funding
of the Judicial Department to maintain court operations;
Therefore, be it resolved that the Board of Governors
1. Strongly advocate for adequate funding of the Judicial Department:
2. Actively oppose any additional reductions to the Judicial Department budget;
3. Urge members of the bar to contact their legislators in support of adequate funding for
the Judicial Department and in opposition to further cuts to the department’s budget; and,
4. Urge members of the bar to educate their clients and the public on the critical need to
support adequate funding for state courts to ensure that Oregonians have adequate access
to timely justice.