MBA billboard ads urge voters to support more funding for the state’s court system
The Massachusetts Bar Association, or MBA, said it is launching an unprecedented marketing campaign that seeks to persuade voters to urge their legislators to approve additional spending for the state’s court system.
Billboard ads urge motorists to visit the association’s website at www.massbar.org, which features videos that describe the effects of underfunded courts. The billboard message is: “What if you couldn’t be heard? Underfunded courts do affect you. Find out how.”
In a statement, association president Richard P. Campbell said: “Understandably, the average citizen may not appreciate the irreplaceable role courts play in their security, livelihood, and freedoms. This significant communication will attempt to change that.”
Campbell added: “We’ve never done this before. The fact that the MBA has committed to elevating awareness in this fashion is a clear indication of how dire the circumstances have gotten in the courtroom atmosphere and operations.”
According to the MBA, the trial court is currently operating on a fiscal year budget of $541.3 million. That amount is “inadequate.” At least $52.6 million more in additional annual funding is needed, the MBA said.
Chris Reidy can be reached at reidy@globe.com.
