Louisiana 2020 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HB556

Introduced
2/28/20  
Introduced
2/28/20  
Refer
2/28/20  
Refer
2/28/20  
Refer
3/9/20  

Caption

Provides relative to juvenile court fees (OR DECREASE SG RV See Note)

Impact

If passed, HB 556 would significantly reform aspects of Louisiana's juvenile justice system by eradicating the financial liabilities that often accompany juvenile adjudication. Currently, courts can assess fees for various services including probation supervision and legal representation. By removing these fees, proponents argue that the bill would alleviate the financial strain on families, ensuring that their children's access to justice and support is not hindered by economic barriers. The bill also intends to abolish the Judicial Expense Fund, which has historically funded operational costs for juvenile courts through collected fees.

Summary

House Bill 556 aims to eliminate all administrative fees, costs, and taxes that are commonly associated with juvenile delinquency cases in the state of Louisiana. The bill proposes the repeal of various laws and amendments that have traditionally allowed courts to impose fees on juveniles, their parents, or guardians. This legislation is a response to ongoing debates about the financial burden placed on families involved in the juvenile justice system, which many lawmakers believe can be detrimental to the welfare and rehabilitation of young individuals.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 556 appears largely positive among advocates of juvenile justice reform and those focused on reducing the systemic injustices faced by low-income families. These supporters argue that eliminating fees will promote a more equitable justice system by preventing financial inequality from impacting legal outcomes. However, there are concerns among some stakeholders regarding the funding of court operations and whether this change might lead to resource shortages for juvenile courts, potentially impacting their efficiency and effectiveness.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 556 include the sustainability of juvenile court operations post-implementation. Critics point to the elimination of fees as potentially undermining the financial structure that supports court functions. There are fears that this move could lead to budget shortfalls or reduced services unless alternative funding sources are established. Additionally, the debate touches on broader issues of accountability and responsibility within the juvenile justice system and how best to ensure that justice remains accessible and fair without overburdening families.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA HB216

Provides relative to the imposition of court costs in proceedings involving children (EN DECREASE SG RV See Note)

LA SB284

Provides for costs in juvenile delinquency proceedings. (gov sig) (OR SEE FISC NOTE SG RV)

LA HB513

Provides for an increase in certain fees for the Orleans Parish Juvenile Court (EN INCREASE LF RV See Note)

LA HB511

Provides relative to juvenile court-ordered physical and mental care and exam fees

LA HB158

Provides relative to the detention or release of juveniles (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX See Note)

LA HB834

Authorizes temporary deferral of court costs by certain governmental parties and agents and provides for the collection of such deferred costs (EN INCREASE SG EX See Note)

LA SB299

Provides relative to fees, charges, penalties, and fines for certain traffic violations.(gov sig) (OR DECREASE SG RV See Note)

LA SB197

Provides for fines and penalties in juvenile delinquency proceedings. (gov sig) (OR DECREASE LF RV See Note)

LA HB625

Provides relative to maternity and adoptive leave for teachers (EN INCREASE LF EX See Note)

LA HB607

Provides for the elimination of two judgeships from the Orleans Parish Juvenile Court (RE DECREASE GF EX See Note)

Similar Bills

LA HB216

Provides relative to the imposition of court costs in proceedings involving children (EN DECREASE SG RV See Note)

LA HB416

Provides relative to threats, attempts, or acts of violence through bomb threats by a minor child

LA SB370

Provides for parent participation after adjudication of a delinquent act committed by their juvenile child. (8/1/22)

LA SB233

Provides for parent participation after adjudication of a delinquent act committed by their juvenile child. (8/1/20)

NM SB430

"neglected Child" Definition

NM HB134

Delinquency Act Changes

NM SB326

Delinquency Act Changes

SD SB198

Establish an interim committee regarding alternative programming for juvenile offenders.