HB644 Summary

• Establishes a $10 law enforcement defenders service fee in Dallas County circuit and district courts for each defendant in excess of one when personal service is required in civil cases.

• Fees must be paid at the time of filing, except courts may waive payment if the plaintiff demonstrates substantial hardship with a verified statement.

• Monthly distribution of collected fees allocates $3 to the county general fund, $3 to the Peace Officers Annuity and Benefit Fund, $2 to the county solicitors fund, and $1 to the county sheriff's fund, with any remaining balance paid to the state general fund.

• Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and gubernatorial approval.