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 establishes that if a defendant is unable to pay these obligations at the time of sentencing or thereafter, a judgment shall be entered against them, allowing for the same enforcement remedies as any other judgment creditor. Importantly, the bill prohibits imprisonment solely for the inability to pay these financial obligations. Additionally, if a defendant enters into an installment payment agreement with a court cost compliance liaison, all enforcement remedies will be stayed until a payment is missed.

Furthermore, the bill expands the court cost compliance program to include judgments entered under the new provisions. It allows county sheriffs to contract with third parties to assist in the collection of outstanding fines and fees, and it outlines the methods by which payments can be made, including various forms of payment and the process for handling insufficient funds. The bill also clarifies that payments made in lieu of court appearances will be treated as a finding of guilt, and it establishes procedures for recalling outstanding warrants upon payment. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.

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