Bill > HB0094

This bill amends existing law regarding criminal accounts receivable, which are debts owed to the court by individuals convicted of crimes, such as fines, fees, and restitution. The bill allows defendants, before their sentence ends, to petition the court to address these debts if paying them would cause significant hardship. Specifically, defendants can request to satisfy unpaid fines, fees, surcharges, and interest through compensatory service at a rate of at least $12 per hour, or reduce these amounts by the cost of court-ordered treatments or courses they have completed and paid for, provided they submit proof. This applies even if the debt is overdue or was mandatory. However, these provisions do not apply to the principal or interest owed for restitution. The bill also allows for the denial of such relief if a prosecuting attorney objects, arguing it's not in the interest of justice. Additionally, the bill clarifies that defendants under the jurisdiction of the board can petition the board to modify their payment schedules due to hardship, and it sets an effective date of May 6, 2026.

Justice

https://le.utah.gov/~2026/bills/static/HB0094.html