SB419 Summary

• Creates the Fairness in Enforcement of Fines and Fees Act requiring Alabama courts and governmental entities to comply with constitutional principles (due process, equal protection, right to counsel) when enforcing fines and fees.

• Prohibits incarceration for nonpayment of fines or fees without prior indigency determination and requires proportional fines based on ability to pay, with alternatives including payment plans and community service.

• Restricts use of arrest warrants for debt collection, prohibits holding persons solely due to inability to pay bail or bond, and requires release on own recognizance within 12 hours of booking for initial violations.

• Prevents driver's license suspension for failure to appear or pay fines in traffic violations or minor misdemeanors, and requires immediate reinstatement of suspended licenses.

• Requires prosecutors to operate independently from courts, mandates municipal judge independence, and requires courts to provide training on constitutional practices and diversion options for persons with mental illness or developmental disabilities.