Louisiana Senate Bill SB155

Louisiana 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/8/13
• Refer: 4/8/13
• Report Pass: 4/9/13
• Engrossed: 4/16/13
• Refer: 4/17/13
• Report Pass: 5/15/13
• Enrolled: 5/30/13
• Chaptered: 6/17/13
• Passed: 6/17/13

Caption

Increases certain filing fees and costs levied by Louisiana Supreme Court. (gov sig) (2/3 - CA7s2.1) (EN +$135,000 SG RV See Note)

Impact

If enacted, SB 155 would directly affect how court fees are structured in Louisiana, particularly for civil cases. By revising the fee schedule, the legislature aims to enhance financial resources for the judicial system. The bill is expected to generate additional revenue, estimated at approximately $135,000, which would contribute to funding the necessary functions of the Supreme Court. As such, it highlights ongoing conversations about judicial funding and resource allocation within the state, demonstrating an acknowledgment of the rising costs involved in maintaining an effective court system.

Summary

Senate Bill 155 aims to increase certain filing fees and costs associated with the Louisiana Supreme Court. One of the primary changes proposed by this bill is to raise the fees for civil cases from $150 to $300. This increase is designed to help offset the operational costs of the Supreme Court and potentially increase the revenue generated from court proceedings. The adjustments are part of a broader effort to ensure that the judicial system is financially sustainable amidst rising costs and are reflective of the economic conditions faced by the state.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB 155 appears to be largely pragmatic, with many legislators recognizing the need to adjust fees in light of financial pressures. Proponents of the bill argue that the increases are justified in order to ensure that the courts can operate effectively. However, there are also concerns from opponents who argue that raising fees may create additional barriers for individuals seeking to utilize the court system, particularly in civil matters where the ability to afford filing fees can impact access to justice.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB 155 include the balance between generating necessary revenue for the judiciary and ensuring equitable access to legal processes for all citizens. Some critics worry that increased filing fees could disproportionately affect low-income individuals and discourage them from pursuing legal claims. This concern raises important discussions about the accessibility of the judicial system and whether the benefits of increased funding outweigh the potential downsides of imposing higher costs on plaintiffs and defendants alike.