LA HB306

Amends R.S. 46:2136.1(A) to remove the requirement that perpetrators of domestic violence pay costs associated with modification proceedings or costs incurred in "maintaining or defending" ongoing domestic abuse cases

Perpetrators remain responsible for initial costs including court costs, attorney fees, costs of enforcement, costs of appeal, evaluation fees, and expert witness fees through the initial hearing under R.S. 46:2135

After the initial hearing, all costs will be assessed as in any other civil proceeding, with each party responsible for their own attorney fees

Current law requires perpetrators to pay all costs unless the court determines the petition was frivolous; the bill shifts financial responsibility to both parties for post-initial-hearing proceedings