Louisiana House Bill HB21

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/10
• Refer: 3/29/10
• Report Pass: 4/8/10
• Engrossed: 4/19/10
• Report Pass: 5/25/10
• Enrolled: 6/9/10
• Chaptered: 6/17/10
• Passed: 6/17/10

Caption

Provides relative to filing and recordation fees for the receipt of electronic records by the clerk of court's office in the 27th Judicial District Court (St. Landry Parish) (EN NO IMPACT LF RV See Note)

Impact

The enactment of HB21 is expected to positively impact the operational efficiency of the clerk of court's office by providing formal recognition of electronic records. This could lead to a smooth transition from paper-based systems to digital ones, thereby enhancing accessibility for parties involved in civil matters. It also signifies the state's adaptation to evolving technologies, which may result in cost savings over time associated with physical materials and storage space for documents.

Summary

House Bill 21 was introduced to address the procedural aspects of filing and recordation fees specifically in the Twenty-Seventh Judicial District Court of Louisiana. This legislation clarifies that the clerk of court can charge existing fees for the filing and recordation of documents that are submitted electronically. By establishing a framework for electronic submissions, the bill aims to streamline court processes and update existing practices to accommodate modern technological advancements in document handling and filing systems.

Sentiment

The general sentiment toward HB21 appears to be supportive, particularly from those who advocate for technological advancements in government operations. While there hasn’t been substantial public discourse surrounding potential drawbacks, the move to incorporate electronic records is generally viewed as a progressive step forward. This sentiment aligns with broader trends in other jurisdictions towards reducing reliance on paper documentation in the legal process.

Contention

Although the bill primarily appears straightforward, there could be inherent concerns regarding the transition from traditional filing methods to digital submissions. These may include ensuring adequate cybersecurity measures are maintained to protect sensitive information and addressing the learning curve for users unfamiliar with electronic filing systems. Critics might question if the costs associated with transitioning to electronic systems are justified by the anticipated benefits, particularly in smaller jurisdictions or with limited resources.