The bill amends section 2929.18 of the Revised Code to establish a 180-day grace period during which offenders are not required to pay financial sanctions, including restitution, fines, and other obligations, following their release from prison or completion of transitional control. This change aims to provide offenders with a reprieve to stabilize their circumstances before facing financial responsibilities. While the obligation to pay these sanctions remains, the bill clarifies that offenders will be required to fulfill these obligations once the grace period has elapsed.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions regarding the payment of reimbursements for costs incurred by municipal corporations and private providers due to sanctions, specifying that offenders must pay these amounts to the respective treasurers or providers. It also emphasizes that financial sanctions are judgments in favor of the state or other entities, detailing the collection procedures for these judgments. Furthermore, the bill prohibits courts from requiring offenders to pay any outstanding court-assessed fines, fees, or costs during the 180-day period, although this does not apply to restitution owed to victims. The bill also repeals the existing section 2929.18, indicating a comprehensive update to the legal framework surrounding financial sanctions in criminal proceedings.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2929.18