CA AB2544

Requires processing agencies collecting unpaid parking penalties issued before July 1, 2018 to provide a payment plan option for indigent persons, with monthly installments of no more than $25 for amounts $300 or less and a maximum 18-month payoff period.

Waives late fees and penalty assessments for indigent persons who enroll in a payment plan, with a processing fee capped at $5 or less.

Allows indigent persons a one-time 45-calendar-day extension to resume payments if they fall out of compliance with the payment plan before collection proceedings are filed.

Defines "indigent" as persons meeting income criteria under California Government Code Section 68632 or receiving public benefits from specified programs, verified through pay stubs, bank statements, or benefits transfer cards.

Section 40220.5 expires January 1, 2027 and is repealed, while the bill takes effect immediately as an urgency statute.