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Bill

SB 313

CLERKS OF COURT: Prohibits clerks of court's vendors from charging additional electronic filing fees in criminal and traffic actions. (8/1/26)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Katrina Jackson-Andrews

Prohibits Louisiana court clerks from charging additional electronic filing fees in criminal cases starting August 1, 2026, reducing filing costs but potentially straining clerk office budgets.

Read third time by title, roll called on final passage, yeas 22, nays 71. Failed to pass.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 313

Legislative bill overview

SB 313 prohibits Louisiana clerks of court from imposing additional electronic filing fees specifically in criminal cases, effective August 1, 2026. The bill restricts a revenue source that court clerks currently use while potentially maintaining their ability to charge such fees in civil matters.

Why is this important

Court clerks' offices rely on filing fees as a significant funding source for their operations. Eliminating these fees in criminal matters—which typically represent substantial caseload volume—could create budget pressures for clerk operations, potentially affecting service delivery, staffing, or modernization efforts. Conversely, removing barriers to electronic filing in criminal cases may improve access to justice by reducing costs for defendants, attorneys, and low-income individuals navigating the criminal system.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact on clerk operations: Criminal cases often comprise a large portion of court filings; losing this revenue stream could force clerks to reduce services, cut staff, or seek alternative funding through the legislature
  • Equity vs. sustainability trade-off: While reducing costs aids access to justice, it shifts financial burdens away from those using the system onto general taxpayers or requires reallocation of limited court budgets
  • Patchwork application: Allowing fees in civil but not criminal matters creates inconsistent policies that may complicate administrative procedures and fee collection systems

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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