Michigan Senate Bill SB0514

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/20/23
• Refer: 9/20/23

Caption

Civil procedure: costs and fees; fees for transcripts; increase. Amends sec. 2543 of 1961 PA 236 (MCL 600.2543).

Impact

The proposed bill includes a significant provision for adjustments of fees aligned with the Consumer Price Index, which will occur every five years starting January 1, 2030. As a result, the fees could be reassessed and increased to ensure that the compensation for reporters remains fair and relevant to economic conditions. This change is crucial in maintaining the viability of court reporting as a profession in light of changing economic circumstances.

Summary

Senate Bill 514 aims to amend section 2543 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, which governs the compensation rates for court reporters and recorders in Michigan. The bill proposes an increase in fees charged by court reporters for transcripts. Currently, reporters may charge $1.75 per original page and 30 cents per copy. Under the proposed amendments, these rates will rise to $3.75 for original pages and 90 cents for copies. This adjustment reflects an effort to adequately compensate reporters for their work considering inflation and evolving market conditions.

Contention

Some points of contention may arise from the increased costs associated with acquiring court transcripts. Critics may argue that higher fees could create barriers for individuals seeking justice who rely on transcripts for appeals or motions. The bill also allows for increased fees only to be recovered as part of taxable costs when transcripts are sought for specific legal purposes. This limitation may raise concerns about access to legal resources for lower-income individuals, sparking debates about equity in the judicial process.