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Bill Summary · HB 781

Summary of House Bill 781: Relating to the Waiahole Water System

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 781 aims to authorize the assessment and collection of a technology fee by the Magistrate Court of Crawford County, Georgia. The primary intent of the bill is to enhance the technological capabilities of the court, ensuring it can effectively manage civil actions and improve public access to court records.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several important provisions:

  1. Technology Fee Assessment:

    • The clerk of the Magistrate Court is authorized to charge a technology fee of up to $5.00 for each civil action filed and as a surcharge on each fine assessed by the court.

  2. Authorized Uses of the Fee:

    • The collected fees are designated exclusively for technological needs, including:
      • Purchase of computer hardware, software, and accessories.
      • Lease, maintenance, and installation of computer hardware.
      • Acquisition of imaging, scanning, facsimile, communications, projection, and printing equipment and software.
      • Services or equipment for converting court records and archives to digital formats for public access.

  3. Fund Management:

    • Fees collected will be maintained in a segregated account by the clerk of the Magistrate Court, ensuring that funds are used solely for the specified technological purposes.

  4. Termination of Fee:

    • The authority to collect the technology fee will terminate on July 1, 2035. Any remaining funds in the account after this date will be redirected to general technology uses within Crawford County.

  5. Repeal of Conflicting Laws:

    • The bill includes a provision to repeal any laws that conflict with its terms.

Affected Parties

  • Crawford County Magistrate Court: The court will benefit from improved technology, which will enhance its operational efficiency and public service.
  • Court Users: Individuals filing civil actions or paying fines will incur a nominal fee, which will contribute to the court's technological upgrades.
  • Crawford County Residents: The general public will benefit from improved access to court records and services due to enhanced technology.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: March 18, 2025
  • House Passed: March 27, 2025
  • Senate Passed: March 31, 2025
  • Sent to Governor: April 7, 2025
  • Signed by Governor: May 13, 2025
  • Effective Date: May 13, 2025

Conclusion

House Bill 781 represents a significant step towards modernizing the technological infrastructure of the Crawford County Magistrate Court. By implementing a modest technology fee, the bill aims to ensure that the court can meet the demands of a digital age while maintaining transparency and accessibility for the public.

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

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