Gives people in prison more time to pay court fines

Fines, costs, forfeitures, etc.; collection fees, assessment against incarcerated defendant.

Introduced· 2026-01-09

Who's it for

Who's it for: Everyday People

What it means for you

9/10Helps you

Good for everyday people ·

Plain‑English summary, cross‑checked against the official bill text.

This bill would stop the state from sending court fines to debt collectors while a person is still in prison and unable to earn money.

Our take

What we think, in plain words.

Right now, people in prison can have their court fines sent to debt collectors after just ninety days. Because they cannot work normal jobs behind bars, this traps them in debt before they even get out. This bill would force courts to pause those payments until the person is actually released. It also doubles the time anyone has to pay a court fine before it goes to collections. This is a helpful change that gives people a fair chance to pay their debts once they are free.

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The facts

What the bill actually says, no spin.

Increases the time before unpaid court fines go to collections from 90 days to 180 days.
Forces courts to set up a delayed payment plan for people who are sent to prison.
Makes sure the first payment is not due until after the person is released from prison.
Takes effect on January 1, 2027, if it becomes law.