Texas House Bill HB3553

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to filing fees for the electronic filing system established by the Supreme Court of Texas.

Impact

The bill, if enacted, will repeal an existing subsection of the Government Code that previously allowed local governments to charge a fee for electronic filing transactions. This change could streamline the process for electronic filing within Texas courts, potentially lowering costs for individuals and entities needing to file documents electronically. The amendment also suggests the legislative body’s intent to eliminate certain fees that were perceived as outdated or redundant, thereby contributing to the efficiency of the court system.

Summary

House Bill 3553 addresses the electronic filing system established by the Supreme Court of Texas, specifically concerning the filing fees associated with this system. The intent of the bill is to clarify and regulate the charging of fees related to electronic filings that are conducted by local governments and appellate courts. This bill seeks to address previous ambiguities in the law and ensure a more coherent and uniform approach to the collection of these fees across various jurisdictions. It's a legislative move that reflects the ongoing modernization of court processes in Texas.

Contention

Notably, discussion surrounding HB3553 may center around the implications of abolishing the specific fee, which could lead to debates regarding the funding of the electronic filing system. Opponents might express concerns about how the removal of fees could affect local government revenue, especially if these fees were previously earmarked for maintaining electronic filing infrastructure. Conversely, proponents of the bill may argue that simplifying and reducing financial burdens on filers is a step towards promoting access to justice.