With the 2025 legislative session in full swing, Jacksonville Area Legal Aid is watching several pieces of legislation that could affect indigent clients. Among them is a proposal that would reduce funding for legal aid services statewide. Florida is one of just two states that doesn’t fund civil legal aid for the poor through the state budget. Instead, Florida relies on something called the Interest on Trust Accounts, administered by the Florida Bar Foundation—a fund that is currently on the legislative agenda. We discuss what locals—and lawmakers—need to know.
Guest: Jim Kowalski, president and chief executive officer at Jacksonville Area Legal Aid
Then, we'll introduce you to a new benefit for sustainers of WJCT News 89.9: a curated collection of on-demand audio, including exclusive podcasts and extra content you won't hear on air. One such offering, Kingpins & Catalysts, explores the impact and legacy of First Coast changemakers through deep-dive interviews by Anne Schindler with people like educator and anthropologist Dr. Johnnetta B. Cole, Jacksonville University basketball legend Artis Gilmore, criminal defense attorney Ann Finnell and hip-hop innovator Willie Evans Jr. We discuss the podcast’s launch, as well as all the new content available through WJCT News Now.
Guest: Letisha Bereola, director of podcasting at WJCT
And, we'll preview the first-of-its-kind “St. Practice Day” Bar Crawl, inviting locals to explore Mayport’s growing bar scene on St. Patrick’s Day before heading on to their favorite Irish pub.
Guest: David Murphy, general manager at Mayport Brewing Co and Bedlam
