Fines and Fees
Number of uninsured drivers in one state plummets with new verification system, automatic fines
Arkansas’ enforcement mechanism is one of the strictest in the U.S., constantly checking insurance status in real time. Many other states only check once a month.
Traffic tickets can be profitable, and fairness isn’t the bottom line in city courts where judges impose the fines
COMMENTARY | Research shows police officers issue more traffic tickets and judges impose more fines when their city gets the money and when the budget is tight. But if states change the rules about who keeps the money, the incentives for revenue maximization go away.
The Fee Trap: Why Alabama’s local governments can’t shake fines and charges
The state’s tax caps mean governments have to turn to charges to keep running. It may not be sustainable.
More Governments Join National Fine and Fee Reform Effort
Seven additional cities and counties are set to take part in the initiative, which is seeking to rework fines and fees that often fall most heavily on low-income and minority residents.
The Cities With the Heftiest Parking Fines
A new report looks at how violations like blocking traffic, loading zones or pedestrian ramps can put a dent in drivers' wallets.
It’s Time to Reject Fines and Fees as a Solution to Budget Problems
COMMENTARY | State and local governments must dramatically reduce their reliance on this hidden regressive system of taxation that worsens racial and economic inequities.
Illinois Becomes First State to Abolish Cash Bail
Judges will instead use a risk assessment tool to determine a defendant's fitness for release. The change is part of a broader criminal justice reform bill Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed this week.
Michigan Lawmakers to Do Away with Automatic License Suspensions
Legislators approved a bill that will stop the suspensions of driver's licenses for most unpaid fines and fees.
The Pandemic Hasn’t Stopped This School District From Suing Parents Over Unpaid Textbook Fees
When the pandemic started, several school districts in Indiana halted the long-standing practice. But one district has filed nearly 300 lawsuits against parents, and others also have returned to court.
Snitches Could Get Cash for Illegal Parking Tips
The proposal, currently before the New York City Council's transportation committee, would give citizens 25% of any fines resulting from reports of certain illegally parked cars.
Featured eBooks
Three Alternatives to the Usual Strategies for Collecting Fines and Fees
A report from the Fines and Fees Justice Center lays out alternatives for cities looking to make collection practices more equitable and efficient.
How Fines and Fees Reform Became a Priority for Cities Across the Country
Dozens of cities are changing how they collect fines and fees. How did this movement grow?
A City Could Wipe Away 55,000 Old Warrants
More than 44,000 people in New Orleans have warrants for traffic violations and what advocates call “crimes of poverty.” City leaders say the system needs to be overhauled.
Why Chicago Is Backing Off Collecting All Its Ticket Debt
Chicago has built a significant percentage of its city budget off of fines and fees. City leaders are now saying that isn’t fair.
