Senate Bill No. SLS 24RS-360, introduced by Senator Bass, amends the Code of Civil Procedure regarding limitations on jury trials. The bill removes the previous $10,000 threshold for jury trials, allowing for greater access to jury trials in civil actions. It also modifies the cash deposit requirement for demanding a jury trial, reducing it from $5,000 to $4,000. The bill specifies that in cases where an individual petitioner admits their cause of action is less than $50,000, they may still demand a jury trial by filing the appropriate pleading and providing the cash deposit within 60 days.

The bill retains certain provisions that deny jury trials in specific types of cases, such as unconditional obligations to pay a specific sum of money, family law matters, and administrative reviews. It is set to take effect on January 1, 2025, and will apply prospectively, meaning it will not affect any causes of action arising or actions pending before that date. The amendments aim to streamline the process for obtaining a jury trial while ensuring that specific legal protections remain in place.