SB56 Summary

• Establishes the Jackson County Preservation of Justice Act to authorize additional court costs in Jackson County Circuit and District Courts, with revenues deposited into the Jackson County Judicial Employees Fund to fund judicial staff positions.

• Assesses additional court costs in Circuit Court of $100 for civil cases (except domestic relations at $75) and $20 for criminal cases; in District Court of $20 for civil cases (excluding unlawful detainer, small claims, and child support) and $20 for criminal cases (excluding traffic and worthless check cases).

• Creates the Jackson County Judicial Employees Fund administered by the circuit court clerk, with expenditures directed by the presiding circuit judge and clerk to provide staffing for the circuit clerk's office and Jackson County courts.

• Allows the presiding circuit judge to enter into a memorandum of understanding with the Administrative Office of Courts for fund payments or to expend funds directly for staffing needs as determined appropriate.

• Provides that court cost collection shall cease if the presiding circuit judge certifies to the Jackson County Legislative Delegation that state funding adequately covers judicial system staffing needs; act becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage.