Provides relative to unclaimed bail bonds in the parish of Plaquemines. (8/15/11)
Impact
The enactment of SB 180 will alter the financial management of unclaimed bail bonds significantly within the specified parishes. By reallocating these funds into the general fund, the bill aims to provide a system for returning funds to owners who can establish their claims through a court judgment. This shift signifies a change in how local sheriffs and governing bodies handle unclaimed bail funds, ensuring that they are used more transparently and efficiently once unclaimed for the designated period. Furthermore, the bill releases sheriffs from liability once the funds are deposited, transferring financial responsibility to the community governing authority.
Summary
Senate Bill 180, introduced by Senator Heitmeier, addresses the disposition of unclaimed cash bail bonds specifically in Plaquemines Parish. The bill amends existing legislation by stipulating that cash bail bonds that have been discharged and remain unclaimed for over three years, or belong to an unknown owner, must be deposited into the sheriff's general fund. This adjustment pertains to several specified parishes, including Caddo, East Baton Rouge, Bossier, and St. Mary, where the funds also flow into the governing authority's general fund. The sheriff then assumes liability for these funds under the provisions outlined in the bill.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be predominantly positive, with unanimous support evident during its final vote in the House, which passed with 93 yeas and no nays. This indicates a strong consensus among legislators regarding the need to manage unclaimed cash bail bonds more effectively. Advocates argue that the bill provides clarity and accountability in the handling of these funds, while critics, if any, were not prominently mentioned in the discussions available, suggesting that the bill did not face significant opposition.
Contention
Notably, while the bill received overwhelming support, there could be concerns among community members about the implications of transferring funds into the general fund, including how effectively these funds will be managed and whether this process might impact the ability of individuals to reclaim their money. Transparency in the return process will be key to maintaining public trust, as the amendment means local authorities will now hold financial responsibility for the unclaimed bonds after three years, raising questions about fiscal management and responsiveness to constituents' needs.
Provides for disposition of unclaimed bail bonds in a parish or incorporated municipality located in a parish having a parish court (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF RV)
Provides relative to group insurance premiums of the Plaquemines Parish Sheriff's Office and distributions to the Plaquemines Parish Retired Employees' Insurance Fund (EN +$200,000 LF RV See Note)
Provides relative to provisions in Title 33 which are limited in applicability to political subdivisions or local areas meeting specified population characteristics (Item #8)