Provides for the assessment of a fee for filing civil and criminal matters (EN +$694,384 SG RV See Note)
Impact
If passed, the bill will implement changes to the existing statute regarding court costs, creating a new financial infrastructure for the Louisiana judicial system. The mandatory assessment of these fees is aimed at enhancing the support for judicial education and ethical standards among judges. The bill stipulates that one-third of the collected funds will be directed towards the Judicial College's growth and improvement strategies, while the remainder will support educational endeavors related to judicial ethics, enhancing overall judicial practices across the state.
Summary
House Bill 644 aims to amend and reenact measures related to court costs in Louisiana, specifically addressing the assessment of fees for civil filings and criminal convictions. This bill introduces an additional fee of $2.50 for initial filings in civil matters and for individuals convicted of felonies or misdemeanors, including local government ordinance violations. The bill emphasizes the importance of funding education initiatives and operational improvements within the state's judicial system, as it allocates funds collected from these fees to the Judicial College and the Judiciary Commission.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 644 appears to be generally positive among supporters who view the measure as a necessary step in improving the quality of the judicial system. Advocates argue that by investing in judicial education and ethical standards, the bill fosters a more competent judiciary. However, there may be concerns about the additional financial burden placed on individuals involved in civil and criminal cases, which could be seen as an obstacle for accessing justice, particularly for low-income defendants.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the potential impact of additional fees on individuals, especially in terms of access to justice. Critics may argue that imposed fees could deter individuals from pursuing legal action or complying with court mandates. Additionally, the requirement for funds to be allocated specifically to the Judicial College and related educational purposes may lead to debates regarding priorities in funding for the judicial system. Furthermore, the bill requires approval from the Judicial Council before fees can be enforced, establishing a layer of scrutiny and discussion regarding the appropriateness of such costs.