Bill > HB2102

This bill addresses legal financial obligations (LFOs) in the Washington state criminal justice system, focusing on reducing the financial burden on individuals with limited resources. The bill makes several key changes: it eliminates many existing court costs and fees for criminal defendants, expands the definition of indigency to include individuals with household incomes up to 200% of the federal poverty level, prevents courts from charging interest on legal financial obligations, and prohibits additional fees for payment plans. The legislation modifies numerous existing statutes to ensure that defendants who cannot afford to pay LFOs are not further penalized, with provisions that allow courts to waive, reduce, or convert financial obligations to community service. The bill also repeals several existing laws related to court fees and costs, effectively removing many financial barriers that can trap low-income individuals in a cycle of debt and legal complications. By broadening the definition of indigency and eliminating punitive financial practices, the bill aims to create a more equitable approach to legal financial obligations that does not disproportionately impact people with limited economic resources.

Justice

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2102&Year=2025&Initiative=false