This substitute modifies the law relating to judicial and administrative procedure. If the defendant is determined to be mentally retarded, the death penalty may not be imposed. Costs exclude unknown loss of income due to recovery of premium taxes. Effect on Legal Services for Low-Income People Fund of Unknown in FY 2001, FY 2002, and FY 2003.
Costs exclude unknown loss of income due to recovery of premium taxes.
Supporters say that this bill makes statutory changes necessary for court automation and to comply with recent court cases. Trials de novo should be eliminated because the provisions were originally intended to apply to cases decided by magistrate judges who were not attorneys. It is important to establish procedures to distribute money in the Tort Victims' Compensation Fund because several million dollars have been paid to the fund and no procedures exist to distribute it. Those who oppose the bill say that the bill's procedures involving orders of commissioners should be modified to clarify the effect of orders when objections are filed.