DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of the
legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of the law
or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
HB 969 Original 2024 Regular Session Green
Abstract: Permits court proceedings to be conducted via remote technology.
Present law provides that a hearing on any motion or exception may be conducted by any
audio-visual means at the discretion of the court. Provides further that if witness testimony is
necessary, a party may request that the hearing be conducted in person.
Proposed law provides that in any civil proceeding that does not require witness testimony or the
introduction of evidence, a party may provide written notice to the court at least 10 days prior to the
scheduled hearing date that he will appear remotely. Provides further that provided the court has the
requisite technology, the court shall allow the party to appear by any audio-visual means, unless the
court provides written reasons declining the remote appearance for good cause.
Proposed law provides that when allowing a remote appearance as provided by proposed law, the
court shall ensure the technology enables all parties, whether appearing remotely or in person, to
fully participate. Provides further that the court shall require that a remote appearance by a party
abide by any necessary privacy and security requirements appropriate for the conference, hearing,
proceeding, or trial as established by the court.
Proposed law provides that the court shall have a process for a party, court reporter, or other court
personnel to alert of any technology or audibility issues arising during a remote proceeding.
Present law provides that a judge trial may be conducted by any audio-visual means with the consent
of all parties and permission of the court.
Proposed law retains present law.
(Amends C.C.P. Art. 195.1)