CA AB2664

Authorizes appointment of a pro tempore official reporter who is present in the courtroom by the presiding judge or department judge, rather than requiring advance authorization.

Requires the Judicial Council to adopt rules ensuring that when an official court reporter is unavailable, a party may arrange for a certified shorthand reporter to serve as official pro tempore reporter at the party's expense.

Requires courts to appoint the requested certified shorthand reporter to be present in the courtroom unless the court shows good cause for refusal.

Makes fees and charges of the certified shorthand reporter recoverable as taxable costs by the prevailing party.

Eliminates the requirement for written stipulation of all parties when a pro tempore reporter is appointed in contested matters, allowing appointment pursuant to Judicial Council rules instead.