Justices step back from Pa. court-funding dispute

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — The Pennsylvania Supreme Court is declining a request by county governments that the justices force the General Assembly to provide more money for state courts and bring more uniformity to the court system.

The court ruled unanimously today against the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania and 10 counties.

The decision could end litigation over funding levels and uneven standards across the state that goes back a quarter century.

Chief Justice Ronald Castille’s written opinion says there’s been progress in recent years and the justices believe that “further enhancements” of the state courts should be a product of cooperation among the three branches of government.

An association spokesman says he’s disappointed, while spokesmen for state House and Senate leaders didn’t immediately respond to messages.