Louisiana Senate Bill SB536

Louisiana 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/12/12
• Refer: 3/12/12
• Report Pass: 4/24/12
• Engrossed: 4/30/12
• Refer: 5/1/12
• Report Pass: 5/15/12
• Enrolled: 5/31/12
• Chaptered: 6/7/12
• Passed: 6/7/12

Caption

Provides relative to probation and parole supervision fees. (8/1/12)

Impact

The bill is expected to have a notable impact on the juvenile justice system by standardizing the fee for probation and parole supervision. By capping the fee at fifty dollars, the bill aims to make supervision more equitable and manageable for families undergoing financial hardships. This change could affect how probation and parole are administered in Louisiana, potentially leading to higher compliance rates among families who might otherwise struggle with financial barriers to fulfilling their probation obligations.

Summary

Senate Bill 536 aims to amend the Children's Code in Louisiana, specifically addressing the supervision fees associated with probation and parole. The bill stipulates that when a court orders a child or their parent to be placed on supervised probation or parole, a monthly fee will be charged. This fee is set at a minimum of ten dollars and a maximum of fifty dollars per month. The intention behind this fee collection is to help defray the costs of supervision imposed by the Department of Public Safety and Corrections or any relevant supervising agency.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 536 appears to be largely positive among legislative members, particularly those advocating for juvenile justice reform. Supporters of the bill suggest that the structured approach to supervision fees could improve the overall effectiveness of probation and parole systems. However, there may also be concerns from certain factions about adequately funding supervision programs without placing undue financial burdens on families already facing challenges.

Contention

One notable point of contention could revolve around the implications of enforcing a financial obligation on youth and their families within the justice system. Critics may argue that imposing fees could disproportionately affect low-income families and potentially serve as a barrier to successful rehabilitation of youth in the system. There might also be discussions on the adequacy of the fee structure and whether it provides sufficient resources to maintain the necessary level of supervision for children placed on probation or parole.