Senate Bill No. by Senator Morris proposes significant amendments to the judicial administration in Orleans Parish, particularly concerning the Civil District Court. The bill reduces the number of judges from fourteen to twelve, effective January 1, 2027, and abolishes divisions "C" and "L" of the court. It also establishes a new executive committee to manage the Consolidated Judicial Expense Fund, replacing the previous control held by the judges of the Civil District Court. Additionally, all funds collected for the Judicial Expense Fund for the Criminal District Court will now be redirected to the Consolidated Judicial Expense Fund.

Moreover, the bill mandates the judicial council to conduct a biennial study to evaluate the appropriate number of judgeships in the Criminal District Court, with the first report due by March 1, 2028. If the Supreme Court recommends the abolition of a judgeship based on this study, the process for filling that vacancy will be temporarily suspended for legislative consideration. The bill also outlines new appointment processes for commissioners, requiring them to have at least five years of legal practice in Louisiana and allowing them to practice civil law while prohibiting criminal law engagement. These changes aim to enhance the efficiency and accountability of the judicial system in Orleans Parish, with the new provisions set to take effect on August 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
SB217 Original: 13:1137(B), 13:1312(A), 13:1337(A), 13:1343(A), 13:1344(A), 13:1347(A)(3), 13:2151(D), 13:4(D), 13:2492(A)(1), 13:1347(D), 13:2492(A)(7)