WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 624

WORKFORCE COMMISSION: Transfers certain family and support programs from the Department of Children and Family Services to the Louisiana Workforce Commission and renames Louisiana Workforce Commission to Louisiana Works (EN INCREASE GF EX See Note)

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Beryl Amedée and 62 co-sponsors

House Bill 624 allows Carroll County's State Court to charge a $15 technology fee per civil action to fund tech upgrades, improving court efficiency and access.

Signed by the Governor. Becomes Act No. 478.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 624

Summary of House Bill 624 (HB 624)

Overview

House Bill 624, introduced on February 26, 2025, aims to authorize the assessment and collection of a technology fee by the State Court of Carroll County. This legislation is designed to enhance the technological capabilities of the court system, ensuring that it can effectively manage and process civil actions.

Main Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of HB 624 is to provide the State Court of Carroll County with a dedicated funding source for technological improvements. By implementing a technology fee, the bill seeks to facilitate the modernization of court operations, thereby improving efficiency and access to court services.

Key Provisions

  • Technology Fee Authorization: The clerk of the State Court is authorized to charge a technology fee not exceeding $15.00 for each civil action filed and as a surcharge on each fine assessed by the court.

  • Use of Funds: The collected fees are to be used exclusively for specific technological needs, including:

    1. Purchase of computer hardware, software, and accessories.
    2. Lease, maintenance, and installation of computer hardware.
    3. Acquisition of imaging, scanning, facsimile, communications, projection, and printing equipment and software.
    4. Services or equipment for converting court records and archives to digital formats for public access.

  • Accountability: Funds collected will be maintained in a segregated account, subject to audit by an approved auditor, ensuring transparency and proper use of the funds.

  • Termination of Fee: The authority to assess the technology fee will terminate on July 1, 2035. Any remaining funds in the account at that time will be redirected to general technology uses within Carroll County.

  • Repeal of Conflicting Laws: The bill includes a provision to repeal any laws that conflict with its provisions.

Affected Parties

The legislation primarily affects:
- State Court of Carroll County: The court will benefit from improved technology and resources.
- Court Users: Individuals filing civil actions or facing fines will incur the technology fee, which may impact their overall costs associated with court services.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: February 26, 2025
  • House Passed: March 10, 2025
  • Senate Passed: March 21, 2025
  • Signed by Governor: May 13, 2025
  • Effective Date: May 13, 2025

Conclusion

House Bill 624 represents a strategic effort to enhance the technological infrastructure of the State Court of Carroll County through a dedicated funding mechanism. By establishing a technology fee, the bill aims to ensure that the court can meet modern demands and improve service delivery to the public.

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

Sign in to ask a question.