Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H2278

Introduced
2/27/25  

Caption

Relative to late fees and accrued interest on parking tickets

Impact

Should H2278 be enacted, it would have a significant impact on the way municipalities manage parking tickets and the associated financial penalties. By capping the late fees and accrued interest at the level of the original ticket fine, the bill aims to prevent excessive financial burdens on individuals. This change is particularly relevant in urban areas where parking enforcement can be strict, and individuals may receive multiple tickets, leading to a cascade of increased fees over time. Such a provision may encourage quicker payments of tickets and reduce instances of individuals accumulating unmanageable debt due to escalating fines.

Summary

House Bill H2278, presented by Representative Carlos González, aims to amend Chapter 90 of the General Laws of Massachusetts regarding late fees and accrued interest on parking tickets. The proposed legislation seeks to establish a clear and consistent framework for municipalities concerning the fines associated with late parking ticket payments. Specifically, the bill stipulates that the amount charged for late fees or accrued interest on outstanding parking violations should not exceed the original fine imposed, thus providing some financial relief to offenders who may be struggling to pay the initial violation within the designated timeframe.

Contention

While the bill appears to offer a more equitable approach to handling parking fines, there may be some contention among municipalities regarding its implementation. Officials might argue that capping late fees limits their ability to enforce compliance effectively, as they rely on these additional penalties to encourage timely payments. On the other hand, advocates for the bill highlight the need for fair treatment of residents, as high late fees can disproportionately affect low-income individuals. The balance between effective enforcement and fair treatment is likely to be a point of discussion as the bill progresses through the legislative process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MA S2743

Relative to parking violations in the town of Provincetown

MA H3326

Relative to parking enforcement

MA H2911

Relative to interest fees

MA H3975

To secure while improving fans' tickets

MA H373

To modernize the issuance and sale of sports and entertainment tickets

MA H4276

To secure while improving fans' tickets

MA S2224

To improve RMV fee payment, equity, and road safety

MA H2119

Relative to parking permit fees

MA S144

To modernize the issuance and sale of sports and entertainment tickets

MA H4981

Relative to interest fees

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.