Missouri House Bill HB2459

Missouri 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/7/26

Caption

Creates a special surcharge in civil cases for construction of a new courthouse in Scott County

Impact

The funds collected from this surcharge will be allocated to a newly established courthouse construction fund in Scott County. This fund is designated specifically for the planning and construction of a new courthouse and will accrue interest. Furthermore, the bill allows the construction fund to be used as collateral for securing bonds necessary for financing the construction costs. This provision indicates a strategic move to leverage legal fees for local infrastructural development.

Summary

House Bill 2459 introduces a special surcharge of forty-five dollars that is required from any party filing a civil case in the circuit court of Scott County. This surcharge is in addition to all other costs typically associated with filing a lawsuit. The bill specifies that the surcharge must be deposited with the circuit clerk at the time of filing, and no summons will be issued until this payment has been made. Importantly, this requirement does not apply to cases where the costs have been waived or covered by state, county, or municipal entities.

Contention

The potential implementation of this surcharge is expected to spark discussions among legal practitioners and community members in Scott County. Proponents may argue that the surcharge is a necessary measure to enhance local courthouse facilities, which can improve the efficiency of the justice system. However, opponents might criticize that such fees could create an additional financial burden for individuals seeking justice, disproportionately affecting those from lower economic backgrounds who may already face obstacles in pursuing civil cases.