This bill amends existing laws regarding court financial obligations in criminal cases, specifically addressing the enforcement of fines, fees, and costs associated with convictions. It introduces new provisions that require a judgment to be entered if a defendant is unable to pay these obligations in full or refuses to do so. The bill prohibits imprisonment solely for the inability to pay fines, fees, or costs, ensuring that no defendant can be incarcerated for their financial situation. Additionally, it establishes a court cost compliance program to assist in the collection of these financial obligations, allowing for installment payment agreements and providing mechanisms for enforcement without resorting to imprisonment.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that judgments related to court financial obligations will not become unenforceable and outlines the responsibilities of court cost compliance liaisons in collecting payments. It allows for various payment methods and stipulates that payments made in lieu of court appearances will be treated as a finding of guilt. The effective date for these changes is set for November 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 28-101, 19-514.4