(110 ILCS 916/5)

Sec. 5. Legislative findings. The General Assembly finds the following:

(1) Equal access to justice is a basic right that is fundamental to democracy in this State, and the integrity of this State and this State's justice system depends on protecting and enforcing the rights of all people and quality enforcement of the laws of this State.

(2) Equal access to justice and quality enforcement of State laws are integral parts of the general public welfare.

(3) Vulnerable and disadvantaged citizens of this State are unable to protect or enforce their rights without legal assistance from public interest attorneys.

(4) Graduating law students and practicing attorneys are increasingly unable to continue in public interest attorney positions because of high student loan debt.

(5) Assisting public interest attorneys with loan forgiveness is a major step toward ensuring quality legal representation for this State's most vulnerable citizens and quality enforcement of State law.

(6) The collection and distribution of funds under this Act promotes justice and is in the public interest.

(7) The use of funds for the purposes prescribed by this Act are in the public interest and consistent with providing equal access to justice and quality enforcement of State law.

(Source: P.A. 96-615, eff. 1-1-10; 96-768, eff. 1-1-10.)