Budget hearings nearing end

By Matt Bittle
Posted 2/18/21

DOVER — Members of the budget-writing Joint Finance Committee heard from representatives of the Office of Defense Services and the courts Thursday.

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Budget hearings nearing end

Posted

DOVER — Members of the budget-writing Joint Finance Committee heard from representatives of the Office of Defense Services and the courts Thursday.

Officials from both departments laid out their budget needs, highlighting recent challenges imposed as a result of COVID-19.

Chief Justice Collins J. Seitz Jr. described a “staggering” backlog of cases due to limitations from the pandemic. While the courts have tried to shift proceedings online when possible, jury trials have been suspended for much of the past year, including the last four months.

“I would expect at least a year to work us back down to a manageable level,” Justice Seitz told the committee.

When the pandemic dies down and in-person proceedings can begin again, the judiciary will prioritize criminal cases, he said.

Gov. John Carney’s proposed budget calls for a $103.3 million allocation for the judiciary for the fiscal year starting July 1, about $1.2 million more than in the current period. Nearly all of that goes to personnel.

Daniel Atkins, the executive director of Delaware Community Legal Aid Society Inc., urged lawmakers to provide more funding for civil legal aid for individuals who cannot afford private legal representation.

“We’re being penny-wise and pound-foolish,” he said.

Brendan O’Neill, who has headed the Office of Defense Services since 2009, informed the JFC that he will be retiring when his term ends in May. The office represents indigent individuals charged with crimes. About 85% of people who pass through Delaware’s criminal justice system receive counsel from the state through the Public Defender’s Office or the Office of Conflicts Counsel, both of which fall under Mr. O’Neill’s supervision.

Gov. Carney’s recommendations include $27.2 million for the Office of Defense Services, an increase of almost $770,000. The office is seeking about $140,000 more to convert three contracted positions and two casual/seasonal ones to full time.

“Our mission still remains the same, and that is to provide zealous advocacy for all of our clients,” Chief of Legal Services Lisa Minutola said.

Next week, which will see the Department of Health and Social Services appear before the committee, will mark the final stage of budget hearings for the next few months.

Because of DHSS’ large size and the many fields in which it is involved, it will be spread across three days. Individuals can watch and give public comment by visiting the Joint Finance Committee section of the Delaware General Assembly website and selecting the appropriate meeting date.

The General Assembly will conduct further budget hearings as legislators finalize a spending plan in May and June. Legislators have until the beginning of July to approve a budget.

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