WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 939

Tift County; State Court; authorize assessment and collection of a technology fee

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jaclyn Ford and 1 co-sponsor

HB 939 lets Tift County State Court charge litigants technology fees to fund court technology infrastructure and modernization efforts.

Effective Date
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 939

Legislative bill overview

HB 939 authorizes Tift County's State Court to assess and collect a technology fee from litigants. The bill enables the court to impose this fee as part of case filings or proceedings to fund court technology infrastructure and modernization. This is a local authorization bill specific to one county's judicial operations.

Why is this important

Court technology fees directly affect access to justice by increasing the cost of using the court system for individuals and businesses filing cases. The revenue generated could improve court efficiency through better case management systems, digital filing platforms, and other technological upgrades—or it could create financial barriers for low-income litigants. The fee structure and amount are critical details that determine real-world impact on court accessibility.

Potential points of contention

  • Access to justice concerns: Additional court fees may disproportionately burden low-income individuals and small businesses attempting to resolve disputes, potentially limiting their ability to use the court system
  • Fee amount and structure: The bill's authorization doesn't specify the fee amount, which could range from minimal to substantial; unclear pricing mechanisms may lead to unexpected costs for court users
  • Use of revenue: Without explicit restrictions, the bill doesn't guarantee the technology fee revenue goes exclusively toward court technology rather than general fund purposes, raising transparency concerns

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

Sign in to ask a question.