CO HB1061

Prohibits imprisonment of defendants unable to pay monetary penalties without undue hardship to themselves or dependents.

Requires courts to conduct hearings with notice to determine defendant's ability to pay before imposing jail time for non-payment.

Allows imprisonment only when court finds defendant has ability to pay but willfully refuses, with specific maximum periods: one year for felonies, one-third maximum term for misdemeanors, and fifteen days for petty offenses.

Requires courts to consider alternatives such as adjusting payment terms, lowering fine amounts, revoking portions of sentences, or resentencing when defendants are unable to pay.

Applies to all Colorado courts including municipal courts and takes effect for sentences entered on or after the bill's effective date.