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 following their release from prison or completion of transitional control. This delay applies to various financial obligations, including restitution, fines, and other sanctions, allowing offenders time to stabilize before facing these financial responsibilities. While the obligation to pay remains, the bill emphasizes that offenders will be required to fulfill these obligations once the grace period concludes.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the procedures for collecting financial sanctions, which are considered judgments in favor of the state, political subdivisions, or private providers. It mandates that offenders pay reimbursements for costs incurred by municipal corporations and private providers directly to the respective treasurers or providers, who will allocate the funds to special accounts. The bill also introduces a prohibition on courts requiring payment of any outstanding court-assessed fines, fees, or costs for the specified 180-day period, although this does not extend to restitution owed to victims. Furthermore, the bill repeals the existing section 2929.18, signifying a comprehensive update to the legal framework surrounding financial sanctions in criminal cases.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2929.18
As Reported By House Committee: 2929.18