Louisiana 2024 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HB500

Introduced
3/1/24  
Introduced
3/1/24  
Refer
3/1/24  
Refer
3/1/24  
Refer
3/11/24  
Refer
3/11/24  
Report Pass
4/8/24  
Report Pass
4/8/24  
Refer
4/9/24  

Caption

Increases the pay for jury duty (EG INCREASE LF EX See Note)

Impact

If enacted, HB 500 would result in an amendment to existing Louisiana laws regarding juror compensation, specifically R.S. 13:3049. By increasing the daily pay for jurors, the bill aims to enhance the incentive for citizens to serve on juries. This change could improve juror turnout and participation, ultimately strengthening the judicial process. Jurors often face financial burdens while serving, so the adjustments proposed aim to alleviate these challenges and encourage civic duty.

Summary

House Bill 500, introduced by Representative Green, proposes an increase to the daily compensation for jurors in both criminal and civil trials. The current compensation for jurors is set at a specific daily rate and a mileage allowance. This bill would enhance the compensation rate to $25 for jurors attending criminal trials during voir dire, with an increase to $58 for each day once they are empaneled. Similarly, civil jurors would see an increase to $80 for each day of attendance from the second day onwards. The intent behind this proposal is to acknowledge the time and contribution of jurors in the justice system.

Sentiment

The reception of HB 500 among lawmakers appears to be generally supportive, with acknowledgment of the need to improve juror compensation. There seems to be a recognition of the challenges faced by jurors, particularly those who may lose wages while serving. However, there may be concerns regarding the financial implications for state and local jurisdictions as they adjust their budgets to accommodate increased jury compensation. Overall, the sentiment indicates a move towards valuing the service of jurors more highly.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise surrounding the funding for these compensation increases, as both proponents and opponents might debate the impact on the state budget. While supporters argue that better pay for jurors is a matter of justice and fairness, opponents might express concerns about the potential financial burden on the judicial and governmental system. This debate emphasizes the balance between adequate compensation for jurors and fiscal responsibility for the state.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA HB588

Provides relative to convictions rendered by a verdict from a non-unanimous jury (EG INCREASE GF EX See Note)

LA HB150

Increases certain fees for justice of the peace courts (EN INCREASE LF RV See Note)

LA HB635

Increases the rate of the excise tax on vapor products and electronic cigarettes and dedicates a portion of the avails of such increase to payment of salaries and related benefits for La. State Police (EN -$5,000,000 GF RV See Note)

LA SB33

Increases the amount of supplemental pay for eligible law enforcement and fire service employees. (7/1/23) (EN +$23,553,120 GF EX See Note)

LA HB202

Provides relative to fees for the City Court of Hammond (EN INCREASE LF RV See Note)

LA HB240

Increases certain fees for the justice of the peace courts in East Baton Rouge Parish and Jefferson Parish (EN INCREASE LF RV See Note)

LA HB439

Creates the Victims of Vehicular Homicide Fund (EN INCREASE GF EX See Note)

LA SB149

Provides relative to the state minimum wage. (gov sig) (EG INCREASE GF EX See Note)

LA HB528

Increases penalties for violations of shrimp and crawfish labeling requirements in food service establishments (OR INCREASE SD EX See Note)

LA SB147

Creates the Louisiana Churches and Nonprofit Religious Organizations Self-Insured Fund. (gov sig) (EN INCREASE SG EX See Note)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.