To remove certain restrictions on a person who successfully sues the state also collecting “costs and fees” in addition to any court-ordered damage awards, with some exceptions. Under current law, the winning plaintiff must prove a state agency's position was "frivolous" to collect costs and fees. The bill would instead require the state provide clear and convincing evidence that its position was justifiable. It would eliminate a provision that than prohibits these damage awards if the plaintiff's net worth exceeds $500,000, own a business worth more than $3.0 million, or employs more than 250 people.   Official Text and Analysis.

With the recommendation that the bill pass.

With the recommendation that the substitute (H-1) be adopted and that the bill then pass.

To adopt a version of the bill that also includes matters unrelated to the original bill, dealing with conflicts involving electric utility cooperatives, foreclosing mortgages "by advertisement" and more.

To include provisions related to child support and establishment of paternity.

To revise references in provisions dealing with mortgage foreclosures.

To remove certain restrictions on a person who successfully sues the state also collecting “costs and fees” in addition to any court-ordered damage awards, with some exceptions. Under current law, the winning plaintiff must prove a state agency's position was "frivolous" to collect costs and fees. The bill would instead require the state provide clear and convincing evidence that its position was justifiable. It would eliminate a provision that than prohibits these damage awards if the plaintiff's net worth exceeds $500,000, own a business worth more than $3.0 million, or employs more than 250 people. The House added other unrelated provisions dealing with conflicts involving electric utility cooperatives, foreclosing mortgages "by advertisement" and more.