BILL ANALYSIS

 

 

                                                                                                                                            S.B. 1412

                                                                                                                                       By: Hinojosa

                                                                                                                                              Judiciary

                                                                                                       Committee Report (Unamended)

 

 

 

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

 

Currently, fees for services rendered before judgment in justice court and small claims court are $15 and $10, respectively.  Legislation to increase the jurisdictional limits in justice, county, and small claims courts is being considered by the 80th Legislature and could increase the activity in these courts, thus increasing the need for additional court costs.

 

The bill increases the fees collected for services rendered before judgment in justice court from $15 to $25 and in small claims court from $10 to $25. 

 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

 

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution. 

 

ANALYSIS

 

SECTION 1.  Amends Section 101.141(b), Government Code, to require that a justice of the peace collect a fee for services rendered before judgment of $25, rather than $15, in justice court, and $25, rather than $10, in small claims court.

 

SECTION 2.  Amends Section 118.121 (Fee Schedule), Local Government Code, to make conforming changes.

 

SECTION 3.  Makes application of this Act prospective

 

EFFECTIVE DATE

 

September 1, 2007.