SB 23-072

Senate Bill 23-072, which has been approved by the governor, extends a program that provides defense attorneys for people during their first appearance in court until September 1, 2028. The bill allocates $1.6 million from the state's general fund to support this initiative for the fiscal year 2023-24. This program primarily affects individuals who need legal representation early in the judicial process. The bill became effective on August 7, 2023, meaning that the funding and continuation of the program are now in place according to the terms outlined in the legislation.

Official Summary

The act continues the defense counsel on first appearance grant program until September 1, 2028, subject to sunset review by the department of regulatory agencies. For the 2023-24 fiscal year, the act appropriates $1,666,652 from the general fund to the department of local affairs for use by the division of local government. APPROVED by Governor May 12, 2023 EFFECTIVE August 7, 2023 NOTE: This act was passed without a safety clause and takes effect 90 days after sine die.(Note: This summary applies to this bill as enacted.)

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