This bill amends existing Louisiana law regarding civil claims made by prisoners, specifically focusing on the process of proceeding in forma pauperis, which allows individuals to file lawsuits without prepaying court fees due to financial hardship. Key changes include the requirement for prisoners to submit a certified copy of their trust fund account statement for the six months preceding their application, or a limited period if they have been incarcerated for less than six months. Additionally, if a prisoner is no longer incarcerated, they must provide an affidavit detailing their current assets. The bill also clarifies that prisoners must still pay the full filing fee, with an initial partial fee calculated based on their account activity.

Further provisions stipulate that if a prisoner is not allowed to proceed as a pauper, they must pay the required costs in advance, or their case will be dismissed without prejudice. The bill outlines the process for collecting monthly payments towards the filing fee, whether the prisoner is incarcerated or not, and ensures that the total fees collected do not exceed statutory limits. Overall, the amendments aim to streamline the process for prisoners seeking to file civil actions while ensuring that the financial responsibilities are clearly defined.

Statutes affected:
HB199 Original: 15:1186(A), 15:1188(B)(2)
HB199 Engrossed: 15:1186(A), 15:1188(B)(2)
HB199 Enrolled: 15:1186(A), 15:1188(B)(2)
HB199 Act 253: 15:1186(A), 15:1188(B)(2)