The proposed budget ordinance funds the public defenders at 28 percent of the DA's office, and would override the ordinance mandating 85 percent funding passed in August.
The 2021 budget proposal would cut nearly $100 million from the city’s adopted 2020 general fund. Cantrell has also proposed cutting personnel by about 300 positions.
In a departure from prior appointments, the council only considered one of three nominees in a public meeting, apparently reaching a 'consensus' in private. That could violate state sunshine laws.
The proposal would go before voters in the Dec. 5 election.
Public defenders call it ‘historic moment for New Orleans,’ but there are questions as to whether the ordinance is binding.
DA candidate Williams’ sponsored legislation would require that the city gives the defenders 85 percent of what it gives prosecutors
