House Bill No. 559, introduced by Representative Fisher, aims to amend the existing law regarding court costs in the Fourth Judicial District of Louisiana. The bill proposes to increase the maximum filing fees and court costs that clerks of court can collect from individuals filing civil suits or proceedings, as well as from defendants in criminal cases. Specifically, the maximum amount that can be charged will rise from $15 to $35. This change is intended to support the judicial expense fund, which is used for the proper administration and functioning of the court and the offices of individual judges.

The bill modifies R.S. 13:996.42(A) by removing the previous cap of $15 and replacing it with the new cap of $35 for both civil and criminal cases. The judges of the Fourth Judicial District will continue to determine the specific amount to be collected, but it will now be within the increased limit. The funds collected will be deposited into a designated account for the judicial expense fund, ensuring that the court has the necessary resources to operate effectively.

Statutes affected:
HB559 Original: 13:42(A)
HB559 Engrossed: 13:42(A)