SR 252
A Resolution recognizing March 18, 2026, as "Gideon's Day" in Pennsylvania to honor the hard and selfless work of public defenders across this Commonwealth.
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This resolution designates March 18, 2026, as "Gideon’s Day" in Pennsylvania to honor public defenders. It recognizes the 63rd anniversary of the Gideon v. Wainwright Supreme Court decision, which established the right to legal counsel for those who cannot afford an attorney. The resolution highlights the significant role public defenders play in protecting constitutional rights and acknowledges the challenges they face due to limited funding in Pennsylvania.
Key provisions
- Designates March 18, 2026, as "Gideon’s Day" in Pennsylvania.
- Recognizes the 63rd anniversary of Gideon v. Wainwright.
- Acknowledges the role of public defenders in ensuring access to legal counsel.
- Highlights the importance of public defenders in protecting constitutional rights.
- Notes that public defenders represent over half of those charged with crimes in Pennsylvania.
- Points out that Pennsylvania ranks low in per capita funding for indigent defense.
- Calls for additional state funding to support public defenders.
- Recognizes the challenges public defenders face due to resource constraints.
Who is affected
- Public defenders
- Individuals charged with crimes in Pennsylvania
- Pennsylvania residents
- The criminal legal system in Pennsylvania
- The State of Pennsylvania
Notable changes
- The resolution does not represent a change to existing law, but rather a recognition of the importance of public defenders.
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