Michigan Senate Bill SB0430

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/28/23
• Refer: 6/28/23
• Report Pass: 10/3/23
• Refer: 10/3/23

Caption

Juveniles: other; late fee for juveniles; eliminate. Amends sec. 4803 of 1961 PA 236 (MCL 600.4803).

Impact

If enacted, SB 430 would significantly alter how court fees are managed for juvenile offenders in Michigan. By removing late fees for this demographic, the legislation aims to alleviate the financial burdens on young individuals who may struggle to meet these obligations. This could enhance the rehabilitation potential for juveniles by preventing additional penalties that may arise from already challenging financial situations. Moreover, the bill reflects a shift in focus toward more supportive and restorative approaches in juvenile justice rather than strictly punitive measures.

Summary

Senate Bill No. 430 aims to amend the Revised Judicature Act of 1961 to eliminate the imposition of late fees on juveniles who fail to pay court-related penalties, fees, or costs within a specified timeframe. Under the current law, individuals face a 20% late penalty on any unpaid amount after 56 days. This bill specifically exempts juveniles from the imposition of such late penalties, thereby changing the financial consequences they face in the judicial system. The intention is to provide a more favorable outcome for juveniles, recognizing their typically limited financial resources and the impact of penalizing them further for unpaid court costs.

Contention

The introduction of SB 430 may raise notable points of contention among stakeholders within the judicial system. Proponents argue that eliminating late fees is essential for ensuring that juvenile justice reforms are equitable and that young offenders are not further disadvantaged by financial penalties. Conversely, critics could voice concerns over the potential loss of revenue generated through court fees, which may impact local funding units that rely on these funds for operational costs. There may also be a discussion regarding the encouragement of personal responsibility among youth and the implications of excusing them from financial penalties.

Voting_history

SB 430 was reported favorably with a substitute on October 3, 2023, evidencing initial support from the committee members, as demonstrated by the voting results, which showed 6 yeas and 1 nay. This strong support suggests a positive outlook for the bill's progress through the legislative process.