We are looking to abolish fees and fines related to juveniles in the justice system. These can be debilitating to families and lead to financial hardship, and substantial debt for families.
Youth and their families face substantial debt when they become involved with the court system. These charges don't impose accountability. They represent an injustice that deepens existing racial and economic disparities, limits future potential, and undermines family stability. It is a compounding burden that pushes children deeper into the justice system, increasing the likelihood they will remain involved well into adulthood.
HB 425
Limit Restitution,
Generally revising laws related to restitution payments under the Youth Court Act
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A bill for an act entitled: "An act generally revising laws related to restitution payments under the Youth Court Act; revising the definition of "victim"; extending the jurisdiction of the Youth Court related to restitution payments to a youths 25th birthday; providing that restitution paid under the Youth Court Act is not subject to subrogation; requiring the court to relieve an individual of restitution payments at the end of the courts jurisdiction in certain circumstances; providing that outstanding restitution at the expiration of the jurisdiction of the court is void; allowing a youth to petition the court for modification of a restitution order; and amending sections 41-5-103, 41-5-205, 41-5-1521, and 46-18-248, MCA."
HB 500
Eliminate Fines and Fees,
Eliminating youth court fees, costs, and certain fines and financial obligations
A bill for an act entitled: "An Act eliminating Youth Court fees, costs, certain fines, and certain financial obligations; creating reporting requirements to the Criminal Justice Oversight Council; amending sections 41-5-132, 41-5-1304, 41-5-1412, 41-5-1501, 41-5-1503, 41-5-1511, 41-5-1512, 41-5-1513, and 41-5-1703, 8 MCA; and repealing sections 41-5-112 and 41-5-1525, MCA.”