Indiana 2023 Regular Session

Indiana House Bill HB1370

Introduced
1/17/23  
Refer
1/17/23  

Caption

Prosecuting attorney commission.

Impact

With the establishment of the Indiana Prosecuting Attorney Commission, this legislation aims to centralize and streamline prosecutorial functions across the state. It introduces a reimbursement mechanism for counties covering 70% of their prosecuting attorney expenditures, which directs greater financial support towards local law enforcement. The bill intends to alleviate some of the budgetary constraints that county attorneys face, fostering a more consistent delivery of justice services throughout Indiana.

Summary

House Bill 1370 establishes the Indiana Prosecuting Attorney Commission, aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency and support for prosecuting attorney services within Indiana. This commission will be responsible for recommending staffing needs to the General Assembly, creating guidelines and standards for prosecutorial services, and managing a fund to reimburse counties for attorney service expenses. The law is set to take effect on July 1, 2023, to address current inadequacies in the prosecution system and provide necessary resources to county attorneys.

Sentiment

The sentiment towards HB 1370 appears to be generally positive among lawmakers, particularly those invested in improving prosecutorial efficiency and accountability. Supporters believe that the commission will lead to better resource allocation and enhance the capacity of prosecuting attorneys, thus improving overall public safety. However, there are concerns regarding how this commission will operate in practice and whether it can maintain impartial evaluations of staffing and funding needs.

Contention

Notable points of contention revolve around the commission's potential influence over local prosecutorial practices and budget allocations. Critics may argue that while the bill aims to standardize and enhance prosecutorial efficiency, it could inadvertently limit local control over district attorney operations and the priorities of individual jurisdictions. This debate highlights the tension between central oversight and local autonomy in the administration of justice.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IN SB0280

Prosecuting attorneys.

IN SB0284

Prosecuting attorneys.

IN SB0148

Prosecuting attorneys.

IN HB1217

Prosecuting attorneys.

IN HB1371

Additional prosecuting attorneys.

IN SB0179

Commission on court appointed attorneys.

IN HB231

Prosecuting Attorneys Oversight Commission; create

IN SB92

Prosecuting Attorneys Oversight Commission; create

IN HB1215

Miami County deputy prosecuting attorney.

IN HB1316

Prosecuting attorneys; creating the Prosecuting Attorneys Oversight Commission; stating purpose of the Commission; codification; effective date.

Similar Bills

IN SB0148

Prosecuting attorneys.

IN HB1006

Prosecutors.

IN SB0284

Prosecuting attorneys.

IN SB0165

Noncompliant prosecutor.

IN SB0280

Prosecuting attorneys.

WV HB2784

Relating to duty to prosecute

WV SB451

Directing Prosecuting Attorneys Institute to make training available to certain new prosecuting attorneys

TX HB17

Relating to official misconduct by and removal of prosecuting attorneys.