Rhode Island Senate Bill S2538

Rhode Island 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/1/22
• Refer: 3/1/22

Caption

Motor Vehicle Violations Fines Collected

Impact

The implications of S2538 are substantial, as it establishes a clear temporal limitation on the enforcement of fines related to motor vehicle violations. This change is expected to enhance the financial well-being of individuals who faced governmental penalties that could extend for years without resolution. Additionally, the bill offers a degree of clarity and stability to the legal framework governing motor vehicle violations, potentially reducing the administrative and judicial burdens on municipalities that currently process these fines.

Summary

Bill S2538, relating to motor vehicle violations, proposes a significant change to the collection of fines associated with such violations. Specifically, the bill prohibits the state, municipalities, or courts from collecting any fines or costs that arise from motor vehicle violations after a period of seven years has elapsed since the fines became final and unappealable. This legislative initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on motorists who may face longstanding violations, effectively preventing the accumulation of fines indefinitely.

Contention

Though the bill appears straightforward in its intent, there may be points of contention surrounding the broader effects of limiting fine collection to a seven-year period. Critics may argue that this change could undermine the enforcement of traffic laws, leading to reduced compliance among motorists who perceive that fines will only be collectible for a limited time. There could also be concerns regarding how this limitation affects municipal revenue streams and the overall efficacy of traffic regulations, raising questions about how communities enforce road safety measures moving forward.