Furthermore, HB1328 proposes the reestablishment of the traffic amnesty program for individuals who have unpaid traffic fines or fees related to the reinstatement of their driving privileges. This program allows eligible persons to petition for a reduction of their unpaid fees by 50%. The eligible period for incurred fees has also been extended to include those accrued before January 1, 2022, broadening the program's available benefits to a larger number of individuals. The bill also includes a mechanism for establishing payment plans for outstanding fees, thus aiming to make it easier for individuals to fulfill their financial obligations and regain their driving privileges.
House Bill 1328, titled the Traffic Amnesty Bill, is designed to amend existing traffic laws in Indiana regarding license reinstatement fees and the introduction of an amnesty program for individuals owing unpaid traffic fines. The bill reduces the reinstatement fees for a driver's license significantly: from $250 for a first suspension to $150, and follows a tiered structure for subsequent offenses—$225 for a second suspension and $300 for any third and subsequent suspensions. These changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2023, presenting a financial relief measure for drivers with suspended licenses due to unpaid fines.
Notable points of contention surrounding HB1328 include potential concerns about whether the reduced fees adequately address the financial situations of those most impacted by these regulations. Critics may argue that while the bill facilitates access to driving privileges, it does not fully tackle the underlying issues of financial insecurity that prevent individuals from paying their fines in the first place. Additionally, the effectiveness and implementation of the traffic amnesty program may be scrutinized. The requirement for eligible individuals to demonstrate financial responsibility may pose further barriers, despite the bill's intent to simplify the reinstatement process.