House Bill 925 amends various sections of Florida Statutes concerning the financial operations of clerks of court, particularly focusing on the retention and distribution of filing fees and service charges. The bill allows clerks to retain specific amounts from filing fees, such as $195 from the first $200 in fees for civil actions, instead of remitting these funds to the Department of Revenue. It also increases the reimbursement rate for clerks submitting requests for filing certain petitions and orders from $40 to $195, and introduces provisions for reimbursing clerks for services provided to indigent individuals. Additionally, the bill modifies the handling of court costs associated with traffic infractions, allowing clerks to retain certain fees rather than remitting them to the General Revenue Fund.

Significant changes include the elimination of the requirement for clerks to remit a portion of fees collected for filing petitions related to domestic violence and other protective orders, allowing for reimbursement under specific conditions. The bill also updates budget procedures for clerks, ensuring balanced budgets that account for cumulative excess funds, and mandates the Florida Clerks of Court Operations Corporation to manage a reserve for contingencies. Overall, House Bill 925 aims to enhance the financial autonomy of clerks of court, streamline the handling of fines and fees, and ensure that individuals seeking legal protection are not deterred by filing costs. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 925 Filed: 28.37, 40.29, 45.035, 57.081, 318.14, 318.15, 318.21, 322.245, 394.459, 394.463, 394.467, 394.914, 394.917, 397.681, 721.83, 741.30, 744.3678, 784.046, 825.1035, 938.05, 142.01