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Funding for remote video, online services, and other technology projects improves services and helps limit the impact of pandemic on court users

Governor Gavin Newsom signed a budget that includes $1.2 billion in new funding for the judicial branch, including restoring $200 million in previous cuts and making major investments in judicial branch programs improving access to justice.

Courts reach court users on handheld devices using a program developed by Monterey County court staff

Three teachers, a community organizer, and a school district superintendent are among the Champions of Civics being honored with a 2021 Civic Learning Award.

This year's Civic Learning Awards were adapted to celebrate people and programs successful in engaging students in civic learning, particularly those not putting civics aside during the pandemic. 

Council also approves expansion of an online pilot program enabling low-income litigants to request reductions in traffic infraction fines and fees remotely

Council will also receive reports on the branch’s ability-to-pay program, self-help centers, and voice-to-text language services

DUI Court will focus on reducing recidivism by rigorous monitoring, combined with addressing the underlying issues of substance abuse, mental illness and/or trauma.

July 24 business meeting will determine how the council incorporates an ongoing budget reduction of $167.8 million, as well as $50 million in one-time funding included in the budget to help courts deal with backlogs caused by COVID-19-related service reductions.

The budget cuts $200 million from the state court system, though $150 million could be restored if the federal government sends additional aid by the fall.

At its May 15 teleconference meeting, the council received reports on potential reductions to judicial branch funding, as well as planning efforts to restore court access and services restricted due to COVID-19 pandemic.