Alabama Senate Bill SB99

Alabama 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/21/23
• Refer: 3/21/23
• Report Pass: 4/5/23
• Engrossed: 5/4/23
• Refer: 5/4/23
• Report Pass: 5/10/23
• Enrolled: 5/31/23
• Passed: 5/31/23

Caption

Relating to courts; to amend Section 12-19-210, Code of Alabama 1975, to increase the expense allowance and mileage reimbursement paid to jurors by order or rule.

Impact

If enacted, SB99 would directly impact the financial compensation jurors receive in Alabama, addressing concerns about low compensation rates that have historically made it difficult for citizens to serve on juries without suffering economic hardship. The increase in compensation is intended to encourage civic participation in the judicial process, ensuring that more individuals can afford to serve without financial detriment. By adjusting reimbursement rates based on the rulings of the Supreme Court, the bill also allows the potential for adjustments in line with changing economic conditions.

Summary

SB99 aims to amend Section 12-19-210 of the Code of Alabama to increase the expense allowance and mileage reimbursement for jurors. The bill specifies that regular jurors, both grand and petit, shall receive an expense allowance of $10 for each day served, and will be reimbursed at a set mileage rate for traveling to and from court. The exact reimbursement rates are to be determined by the Alabama Supreme Court through an order or rule, allowing some flexibility in how costs can be managed and adapted over time. This amendment reflects a recognition of the costs incurred by jurors while fulfilling their civic duties.

Sentiment

Overall, sentiment around SB99 appears to be favorable among legislators, as the vote on the bill was overwhelmingly positive with a final tally of 102 yeas to none nays. This suggests that legislators recognize the importance of proper juror compensation as a means to promote civic duty and support the judicial system. Additionally, public opinion may vary; while some may see the bill as a necessary step toward better compensation, others may question the sufficiency of the increase relative to actual expenses incurred by jurors. This points to a broader conversation about civic responsibility and the support necessary for those serving in the judicial process.

Contention

Despite the general support, there may still be underlying tensions regarding the adequacy of the compensation and whether the increased amounts will genuinely reflect the costs incurred by jurors. Concerns may also arise about the sustainability of the proposed reimbursement rates and how they will be adjusted by the Alabama Supreme Court. Additionally, debates might surface regarding the best methods for managing court resources and ensuring that juror compensation aligns with both legal obligations and financial realities within the state.