House Bill No. [insert bill number] aims to enhance public access to family court proceedings in East Baton Rouge Parish by mandating live streaming and remote public access for all court activities, including status conferences, by January 1, 2027. The bill stipulates that the costs associated with upgrading the current internet system to facilitate this access will be covered by the Court Modernization and Technology Fund. Additionally, it outlines specific rules for proceedings held in chambers, particularly regarding the testimony of minors, and allows for the use of initials or pseudonyms in custody matters to protect the identities of minors involved.

Furthermore, the bill establishes that custody hearings cannot be closed to the public unless there is a determination of good cause by the judge, supported by evidence, and all parties involved agree to the closure in writing and on the record. This legislation is designed to ensure transparency in family court proceedings while also safeguarding the privacy of minors when necessary. The provisions of this act will take effect on January 1, 2027.