LA HB644

Increases court costs from $2.50 to $2.50 for initial civil filings and criminal convictions, including felonies, misdemeanors, ordinance violations, and traffic offenses across all courts including mayor's and magistrate courts

One-third of collected funds must be used solely for the Judicial College's growth and program improvement strategies

Remaining two-thirds of funds directed by the Louisiana Supreme Court for coordinated judicial ethics education between the Judicial College and Judiciary Commission, or other Judiciary Commission expenses related to education, investigation, or enforcement of judicial ethics

Supreme Court required to conduct annual audits of collected funds and file with the legislative auditor for public inspection

Effective date of January 1, 2026, contingent upon Judicial Council approval and recommendation that fees meet applicable guidelines