As state leaders continue to hash out the budget before April 1, organizations that represent children in family courts are calling for a boost in funding.

Advocates say family court attorneys for children have been underfunded for decades, ultimately leading to family separation and unnecessary placement in the foster system.

Organizations from around the state are asking for $15 million in additional funding.

Those groups say the money would help fully fund programs and improve services, especially after recent cuts have contributed to an increase in workload.

Dawne Mitchell, the chief attorney of the Juvenile Rights Practice at the Legal Aid Society, joined Errol Louis on “Inside City Hall” Tuesday night to discuss the funding push and more.

“It’s about humanity. We’re really talking about people and valuing their dignity and respecting them,” Mitchell said. “And understanding that families in crisis deserve to have the support, representation of their community.”