House Bill No. by Representative Deshotel aims to amend the court system in Avoyelles Parish by eliminating the city courts of Bunkie and Marksville and creating an additional judgeship in the Twelfth Judicial District Court. Specifically, the bill amends R.S. 13:621.12 to increase the number of judges in the Twelfth Judicial District from two to three. It establishes a new division, designated as Division C, for the additional judge, who will be elected at large by the qualified voters of the district. The new judge will have the same qualifications, compensation, and allowances as the existing judges and is set to take office on January 1, 2027.

Additionally, the bill repeals R.S. 13:1952(7) and Part VII of Chapter 7 of Title 13, which includes provisions related to the city courts of Marksville and Bunkie, effective January 1, 2027. This repeal will eliminate the current structure and responsibilities associated with these city courts, including the payment of salaries for court personnel and the collection of fines and fees. The proposed changes are intended to streamline the judicial process in Avoyelles Parish and enhance the efficiency of the Twelfth Judicial District Court.

Statutes affected:
HB1165 Original: 13:1952(7)