HB204 Alabama 2020 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Tim WadsworthRepresentative

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2020

Title

Human Resources Dept., require the department to compensate attorneys hired by the department at a minimum rate per hour

Summary

HB 204 would require the Alabama Department of Human Resources to pay attorneys it hires at least $70 per hour for juvenile proceedings, matching the rate used for indigent defendants.

What This Bill Does

It sets a minimum hourly rate of $70 for attorneys hired by the Department of Human Resources to represent the department in juvenile proceedings, based on the hours they work on the case. It overrides other laws to ensure this minimum pay applies. It specifies that this rate applies to time reasonably spent on the case and it takes effect on the first day of the third month after the bill is passed and approved by the Governor.

Who It Affects

• Department of Human Resources — must compensate its hired attorneys in juvenile proceedings at a minimum of $70 per hour, affecting budgeting and contracts.
• Attornies hired by the Department of Human Resources for juvenile proceedings — will be paid at the new minimum rate of $70 per hour for time spent on those cases.

Key Provisions

• Section 1: Establishes a minimum rate of $70 per hour for attorneys hired by the Department of Human Resources to represent the department in juvenile proceedings, based on hours worked.
• Section 2: Provides that the act becomes effective on the first day of the third month following its passage and Governor's approval.
• Note: Uses 'Notwithstanding any other provision of law' to ensure the $70/hour minimum applies even if other laws would suggest a different rate.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.