HB1592 requires counties to report unrepresented accused individuals due to lawyer shortages and recommends ways to retain experienced public.

HB1592 mandates that counties report to the office of public defense the number of accused individuals who are unrepresented due to a shortage of qualified lawyers. The bill also requires the office to make recommendations to increase the retention of experienced public defenders in high-need counties. Additionally, it tasks the office with reporting findings and recommendations to the appropriate fiscal and policy committees of the legislature by December 1, 2026.

HB1592 requires counties to report unrepresented accused individuals due to lawyer shortages and recommends ways to retain experienced public.

HB1592 mandates that counties report to the office of public defense the number of accused individuals who are unrepresented due to a shortage of qualified lawyers. The bill also requires the office to make recommendations to increase the retention of experienced public defenders in high-need counties. Additionally, it tasks the office with reporting findings and recommendations to the appropriate fiscal and policy committees of the legislature by December 1, 2026.