Requests that the Judicial Council study and make recommendations to the legislature regarding the use and collection of court costs and fees requiring Judicial Council review
Impact
The proposed study and subsequent recommendations by the Judicial Council could potentially lead to significant changes in how court costs and fees are assessed and collected in Louisiana. By emphasizing the need for best practices, HCR133 aims to create a fairer system that is responsive to the operational needs of the judicial system. Additionally, the resolution seeks to mitigate the financial burden on individuals interacting with the court system by limiting new costs until the study is completed, thereby promoting justice accessibility and equity.
Summary
HCR133 is a House Concurrent Resolution that urges the Judicial Council of the Louisiana Supreme Court to undertake a thorough study of the current court costs and fees in the judicial system. It calls for the development of best practices for the assessment and collection of these costs and fees, in light of recommendations made by the Louisiana Legislative Auditor regarding inefficiencies and the lack of effective processes in collection. The resolution seeks to ensure that any new or increased court costs or fees be limited until the Judicial Council's study is complete, fostering a more streamlined and equitable approach to court expenses.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HCR133 is largely supportive, focusing on the need for reform within the judicial cost system. Stakeholders, including auditors and judicial officials, have recognized the existing gaps in the court cost collection processes and acknowledge the efforts to identify best practices as a positive step forward. However, there might be apprehensions from some quarters about the implications of delaying new court costs or fees, especially if they are perceived as essential for judicial funding.
Contention
Notable points of contention around HCR133 revolve around the implications of limiting new court costs and fees. While proponents argue that it is essential to study and reform the existing system, critics may argue that this resolution could hinder necessary funding mechanisms for various court-related functions. Additionally, there is a concern about the adequacy of the existing cost structure and its ability to cover operational needs without unduly impacting the public. The resolution lays the groundwork for an essential discussion on balancing judicial needs with equitable treatment of court users.
Requests the Judicial Council to study the Thirty-Second Judicial District and make recommendations to the legislature regarding the creation of a minority election section.
Requests the Judicial Council of the Supreme Court of La. to include justice of the peace courts in its study of the judiciary following the 2010 federal decennial census
Authorizes and requests the Judicial Council of the Supreme Court of La. to study the feasibility and necessity of statewide uniformity of jurisdictional amounts of city courts
Urges and requests the Louisiana Department of Health and other parties to study jointly the language in the Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure Article 648
Requests the Department of Revenue and the Department of Natural Resources, in consultation with the Legislative Auditor, to take all action necessary to collect oil and gas severance tax and mineral royalties and to establish procedures to verify the accuracy of payments and refunds thereof, all to be monitored by the Legislative Auditor and reported to the legislature. (OR1 SEE FISC NOTE GF RV)
Requests DHH to study the most effective means to ensure the proper utilization of inhalers by school nurses and report to the Senate and House Committees on Health and Welfare.
Requests DHH to develop a plan for the creation of a demonstration program to coordinate and integrate the health care for an individual eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid.