COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – The Michigan Indigent Defense Commission will meet March 26 to go over Branch County’s Compliance Plan for indigent defense representation.
Branch County Commissioner Terri Norris said during a work session February 22 that the county had to submit a second plan after the first one was rejected.
In his monthly report to Branch County Commissioners, County Administrator Bud Norman says the Michigan Association of Counties is reporting that Governor Snyder’s proposed amendments to the 2013 M.I.D.C. Act will increase the funding burden on counties.
He said the plan includes a $7.25 per capita local share and taking 90 percent of local funds paid by partially indigent defendants. Norman estimates that will cost Branch County well in excess of $300,000.
According to Norman, “the Governor’s idea would have a huge impact on counties across Michigan and goes against what was promised to counties when the M.I.D.C. Act was adopted.” He added the M.A.C. will continue to work with the administration and legislature to ensure the state’s commitments are kept.