S.B. No. 2554 introduces new provisions under Chapter 45A of the Code of Criminal Procedure, specifically creating Subchapter L, which establishes traffic fine programs for justice and municipal courts. The bill creates an amnesty program for individuals with unpaid traffic fines, allowing them to apply for reductions and potentially lift license suspensions due to nonpayment. It mandates that notices for traffic offenses inform defendants of their eligibility for these programs and requires courts to provide relevant information on their websites. The application process for the amnesty program includes a $100 administrative fee, which can be waived for indigent individuals.

Additionally, the bill establishes an indigency program to reduce fines for those demonstrating financial hardship and an incentive program for individuals with incomes below a certain threshold. Courts are required to notify the Department of Public Safety upon successful completion of these programs and must implement them by January 1, 2026. An amendment to the Transportation Code is also included, requiring county assessors to inform individuals of their eligibility for fine reductions if their vehicle registration is denied due to unpaid fines. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, providing courts with time to prepare for these initiatives aimed at enhancing access to justice.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 502.010 (Transportation Code 502)