Equitable Approaches to Municipal Fines and Fees

The assessment and collection of fines and fees can have wide-ranging harmful consequences, particularly for Black and Latino people who are more likely to be targeted by the criminal justice system and have hefty court fines and fees imposed that they cannot pay. Examinations of how cities assess and collect fines and fees is an important first step to reducing generational debt for low-income BIPOC families and ensuring that racial equity and economic mobility outcomes are achieved. This brief highlights approaches cities have taken to make municipal fines and fees more equitable and provides action steps for city leaders to consider.  

Read the full brief here.