Mississippi House Bill HB808

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/22
• Refer: 1/17/22
• Failed: 2/1/22

Caption

Mississippi Center for Legal Services; require $15.00 collected from criminal and civil actions to be remitted to.

Impact

The implementation of HB808 will allocate funding specifically for legal services aimed at assisting low-income individuals, which could enhance access to justice for this demographic. By requiring the courts to remit a fixed amount for each case they process, the bill creates a sustainable funding stream directed towards supporting legal representation for those who might otherwise face challenges in navigating the legal system due to financial constraints. This funding initiative could have significant implications for the state's approach to legal aid and access to justice reform.

Summary

House Bill 808 aims to amend Section 9-21-43 of the Mississippi Code of 1972 to establish a Civil Legal Assistance Fund. This fund will receive $15 from each circuit and chancery court for any monies collected from civil or criminal actions. The objective of this bill is to provide financial resources to organizations that offer legal services to low-income Mississippi residents. The fund will only allocate resources to programs aligned with the guidelines of the Legal Services Corporation, ensuring that funds are directed towards eligible clients in need of assistance with civil legal matters.

Contention

While the bill primarily focuses on addressing the needs of low-income individuals seeking legal assistance, potential points of contention may arise regarding the allocation criteria and the effectiveness of the organizations that receive funding. Stakeholders might raise concerns about the necessity for robust monitoring and reporting requirements to ensure that the funds are used appropriately and reach those in need. Additionally, there could be debate about whether the established amount of $15 is sufficient and sustainable for the growing demands of legal assistance services in Mississippi.