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HB 644

COURTS/COURT COSTS: Provides for the assessment of a fee for filing civil and criminal matters (EN +$694,384 SG RV See Note)

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Chad Brown

Louisiana implements new filing fees for civil and criminal court cases, generating $694,384 annually but potentially limiting court access for lower-income residents.

Signed by the Governor. Becomes Act No. 299.
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Bill Summary · HB 644

Legislative bill overview

HB 644 establishes new filing fees for both civil and criminal court matters in Louisiana. The bill generates an estimated $694,384 in additional revenue for the state general fund through these court filing assessments.

Why is this important

Court filing fees directly affect access to the judicial system for citizens and businesses. This revenue increase will support court operations, but higher fees can create financial barriers for low-income individuals seeking civil remedies or those facing criminal charges, potentially impacting court accessibility and case processing.

Potential points of contention

  • Regressive impact: Filing fees disproportionately burden low-income plaintiffs and defendants who may struggle to afford court access, raising fairness concerns
  • Criminal justice implications: Increased fees on criminal filings could discourage people from pursuing legitimate legal remedies or create financial hardship for defendants
  • Revenue dependency: Courts may become financially dependent on fees rather than general appropriations, creating incentives to process more cases regardless of merit

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

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