On April 19, Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) introduced S. 1167, the "Legal Aid Attorney Loan Repayment Act," to help ease the often-staggering educational debt burdens of civil legal aid attorneys.

In general, Harkin's bill would provide up to $6,000 a year in loan repayments to attorneys employed full-time in civil legal aid organizations. Applicants would be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to the availability of appropriations. The bill authorizes an appropriation of $10 million for the program in FY 2008.

"This important legislation is critical to ensuring that basic civil liberties are protected for all of our citizens," said Harkin while introducing the bill. "Our promise of 'equal justice under law' rings hollow if those who are most vulnerable are denied access to representation. Legal Aid attorneys across the country protect the safety, security, and health of low-income citizens."

The bill will now go to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions to await action.

For the full text of Harkin's bill and introductory statement, click here.