Virginia House Bill HB375

Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Fines and costs; period of limitations on collection.

Impact

The introduction of HB375 would amend the existing laws regarding how fines are enforced and collected across Virginia. By establishing a definitive limit on the collection period, the bill aims to provide greater clarity and finality to fines and penalties that remain unpaid. This change could potentially reduce the congestion of old claims in the judicial system and provide a reset for both local governments and individuals who might be burdened by long-standing debt from fines.

Summary

House Bill 375 proposes amendments to the Code of Virginia, specifically focusing on the collection of fines and costs associated with penalties. The bill introduces a clear period of limitations on the collection of such fines, intending to extinguish any fines imposed after specified periods if not resolved. It seeks to ensure that once these periods elapse, there will be no rights to pursue the collection of these debts further, a move which could have significant implications for local entities and the legal system.

Contention

Notable points of contention arise regarding the implications of limiting the collection period for fines. Proponents of the bill argue that it fosters fairness by preventing perpetual debt, especially for those unable to pay fines from years past. Conversely, opponents of HB375 express concerns that such limitations may impede local governments' abilities to enforce regulations effectively, arguing that removing the capacity to collect older fines could diminish compliance with local laws and affect funding for community programs reliant on such revenue.