2023 House Bill 5237

Civil procedure: defenses; tenants right to counsel; provide for.

A bill to provide legal services at public expense for individuals who are parties to civil actions and to landlords of residential premises; to provide for the powers and duties of state and local governmental officers and entities; and to require appropriations.

AI Analysis – Experimental

Creates the "eviction legal services act," it mandates district courts to establish programs by October 1, 2024, for facilitating access to these services, subject to available funding. The bill outlines procedures for determining income eligibility, appointing legal counsel, and educating individuals about additional resources. It also specifies that courts should consult with their funding units when establishing these programs, which are to be supported by annual appropriations from the legislature to court funding units, ensuring the sustainability of the legal services provided.

Introduced in the House

Oct. 25, 2023

Introduced by Rep. Emily Dievendorf (D-77) and eight co-sponsors

Co-sponsored by Reps. Jimmie Wilson (D-32), Erin Byrnes (D-15), Veronica Paiz (D-11), Carrie Rheingans (D-47), Rachel Hood (D-81), Jason Morgan (D-23), Penelope Tsernoglou (D-75) and Karen Whitsett (D-4)

Referred to the Committee on Economic Development and Small Business