Louisiana Senate Bill SB219

Louisiana 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/3/16
• Refer: 3/3/16
• Refer: 3/14/16
• Report Pass: 4/5/16
• Engrossed: 4/12/16
• Refer: 4/13/16
• Report Pass: 5/4/16
• Enrolled: 5/18/16
• Chaptered: 5/27/16
• Passed: 5/27/16

Caption

Provides relative to the distribution of forfeitures of criminal bail bonds. (8/1/16)

Impact

If enacted, SB 219 will significantly influence how criminal courts manage and distribute funds collected from bail forfeitures. The law specifies that these funds must be paid to the prosecuting attorney who is responsible for overseeing their appropriate allocation for various judicial expenses, including supporting court operations and related services. This legislative change aims to enhance the financial sustainability of the criminal justice system while ensuring that the proceeds from such forfeitures are used to benefit the community, ultimately leading to improved judicial services and public safety.

Summary

Senate Bill 219, introduced by Senator Claitor, aims to amend the existing laws regarding the disposition of fines and bail bond forfeitures in the state of Louisiana. The bill focuses on clarifying the procedures for the collection and distribution of funds collected through bail forfeitures, particularly those related to commercial surety bonds. The proposed changes are intended to streamline the financial processes involved in criminal court proceedings, ensuring more accountability and efficiency in how these fines are handled and utilized in the court system.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 219 appears generally favorable among legislators and stakeholders who support better financial oversight in the criminal justice system. The unanimous voting (83-0) during its final passage indicates strong bipartisan support, which reflects a collective agreement on the need for reform in the process of handling bail-related funds. However, some concerns might arise regarding how this reallocation of funds could affect local municipalities and whether it would prioritize funding adequately for public safety measures.

Contention

Despite the clear approval in the voting process, discussions around SB 219 also brought up the perspectives regarding the increased control given to prosecuting attorneys over the distribution of funds. Critics of such provisions may argue that it centralizes too much power in the hands of a single position and could potentially lead to misallocation or misuse of funds earmarked for community services. Opponents may stress the need for transparency and checks on how these funds are utilized to ensure they genuinely serve the interests of public safety and justice within their respective jurisdictions.