Texas House Bill HB1860

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to an additional filing fee for civil cases filed in certain courts.

Impact

The bill would amend several sections of the Texas Government Code, particularly by adding new sections related to the collection of these additional fees in various courts. The funds generated from these fees will be deposited into a designated court record preservation account, which is to be managed under the oversight of the county commissioners' court. This funding will allow for valuable investments in the digitization of court records, enhancing access and security for these critical documents.

Summary

House Bill 1860 aims to introduce an additional filing fee for civil cases filed in county, statutory county, and district courts within the state of Texas. The provision calls for the collection of a fee not exceeding $10 to be utilized specifically for the preservation of court records. This initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance the management and protection of judicial records, ensuring they are digitized and safeguarded against potential disasters, such as floods or fire.

Conclusion

Overall, HB 1860 represents a significant step towards improving the preservation of court records in Texas. By instituting a small additional fee in civil cases and directing those funds to specific preservation efforts, the bill aims to protect the integrity and accessibility of judicial records. As discussions around the implementation and effects of the bill continue, stakeholders will need to balance the need for financial resources against the potential impact on access to the court system.

Contention

While proponents of HB 1860 argue for its necessity in modernizing court records and ensuring their longevity, there may be concerns from certain quarters about the introduction of new fees and the financial burden they may impose on individuals seeking to access the civil justice system. Critics may also question whether the additional fee will significantly address the ongoing issues related to record preservation, or if alternative funding sources might be more effective.