SENATE DEMOCRATIC WRAP-UP FOR THE WEEK OF
SEPTEMBER 23, 2002

HARRISBURG-- By a 31-15 vote, the Senate concurred in amendments to House Bill 2322, which would establish the “Access to Justice Account” to provide civil legal assistance to poor or disadvantaged people. The account would be funded through a $10 surcharge on civil court filings; and a $10 fee on filing deeds, mortgages or property transfers. The increased fees are expected to raise about $3.8 million annually.

The bill now goes to the governor.

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In other action, the Senate unanimously approved House Bill 219, which would statutorily authorize the Victim Advocate to help crime victims prepare their testimony to the Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole either in person, by written submission, by videotape or conference call.

The measure now goes to the governor.

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