COURTS/COURT REPORTERS: Provides for a statewide revision of court reporter fees (EG INCREASE LF EX See Note)

HB 527 establishes statewide maximum fees for court reporters across Louisiana, replacing previous district-specific rate structures. It sets new limits: $1.50 per page for standard transcripts in most civil/criminal cases, $6 per page for certified transcripts in non-indigent criminal cases, and $3.50 per page for indigent criminal cases. The bill also requires the Judicial Council to review these fees every three years and prohibits salaried reporters from charging "sitting fees." This directly affects court reporters (who are paid these fees) and courts/litigants who cover the costs of transcribed proceedings.