Mississippi House Bill HB809

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

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

Caption

Mississippi Center for Legal Services Corporation Fund; create and provide for a new fee to be deposited into.

Impact

The implications of HB 809 extend to the restructuring of the existing fee system associated with expungement petitions. The filing fee is increased from $150 to $152, with a portion of this fee designated to support the Mississippi Center for Legal Services Corporation Fund. This change is aimed at enhancing the resources available for managing legal services across the state, reflecting a commitment to improve access to legal assistance for citizens needing to expunge offenses. The dedicated fund could potentially address gaps in legal representation and support for low-income residents seeking expungement.

Summary

House Bill 809 aims to establish the Mississippi Center for Legal Services Corporation Fund, which will serve as a dedicated financial resource for legal service centers throughout Mississippi. The fund is created to accept deposits from various sources, including a newly amended filing fee related to expungement petitions. The legislation specifies how funds will be collected and allocated to ensure operational support for the legal services provided at the state level. Importantly, the bill outlines that any funds remaining in the new fund at the end of the fiscal year will not revert to the State General Fund, which helps maintain the financial integrity and sustainability of the legal services network.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, HB 809 may face scrutiny regarding the increase in filing fees, especially from constituents concerned about the financial impact on those seeking to expunge their records. There could be discussions about whether this increase could deter individuals from pursuing expungement due to affordability issues. Additionally, the allocation of funds must be transparently managed to ensure that the Mississippi Center for Legal Services effectively meets the needs of the community it serves and that funds are duly spent on expanding and enhancing legal service provisions.