Judiciary Appeals to President Obama on Funding

In a September 10 letter, the Judiciary has appealed to President Obama for the funding necessary in fiscal year 2014 to perform its essential constitutional functions. Without it, the federal courts face additional reductions in staff and services that will severely affect individuals and businesses seeking to resolve disputes.

"Several years of flat funding, followed by the sequestration cuts that took effect March 1, 2013, have had a devastating impact on court operations nationwide," wrote the Judicial Conference secretary, Judge John D. Bates.

"It is essential that someone speak for the Judiciary, and I respectfully ask that the Administration help make the case for an increase in funding above the FY 2013 post-sequestration level for the Judiciary," Judge Bates wrote to the President.

Read the letter (pdf).