The New York State Bar Association and a group of lawmakers, civil legal service providers, and advocates announced on March 17 their support for legislation to protect the Interest on Lawyer Account (IOLA) Fund from political interference.
The IOLA Fund provides legal assistance to low-income New Yorkers. Supporters are backing proposed legislation that would remove the fund from the state budget process, aiming to ensure stable funding for civil legal services.
Taa Grays, president-elect of the New York State Bar Association, said, “The Interest on Lawyer Account Fund exists for one purpose: to ensure that New Yorkers who cannot afford a lawyer still have access to justice when it matters most. These are not taxpayer dollars—they are funds generated within the legal system and dedicated by law to civil legal services.” Grays added, quoting Judge Jane Bolin, “Justice is not a favor; it’s a right we all deserve!” She also said, “From the North Country to Long Island, from Western New York to the Southern Tier, the New York State Bar Association stands with you in advancing equal access to justice.”
Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Luis Sepúlveda highlighted that providing civil legal services can save taxpayer money by preventing families from facing housing or health care crises. “IOLA-funded organizations closed 340,000 cases last year. Nearly 700,000 residents kept their homes, secured benefits, protected their families and received legal help that they deserved and needed,” Sepúlveda said. “Justice must be more than a promise; it must be a guarantee.”
Assemblymember Michaelle Solages sponsored bill A1194 to move IOLA funding out of the budget process and create long-term stability. She said, “The IOLA safety net is at risk. The governor is proposing a reduction in the fund. When we defund IOLA, we are not trimming a line item, we are pulling the rug out from under these organizations, forcing them to cut staff and turn away clients. Justice should not depend on your income and dignity should not depend on [a budget] negotiation.”
Two New York City residents shared how IOLA-funded services helped them. Donna Akuamoah received immigration assistance through Immigration Law & Justice New York. She said her family was able to secure legal status thanks to these services: “As a first-generation immigrant… my story would not be possible without civil legal services supported by IOLA… Today… I am so proud to advocate for greater access to these services in New York.” Brenda Quinn described how Legal Services New York City helped her family avoid eviction: “I do not exaggerate when I say we would be homeless without services backed by IOLA… That legal representation gave us a fighting chance… I hope these services remain accessible for people like us.”
Supporters say removing political influence over IOLA funding could help maintain access to essential civil legal aid across New York.
