DE HB213

Authorizes the Town of Elsmere to create a Voluntary Assessment Center with jurisdiction over breaches of peace, offenses, and violations of town civil or criminal ordinances for which voluntary assessments are issued.

Voluntary Assessment Center processes uncontested fine payments, enters violation information into the Delaware Criminal Justice Information System (DELJIS), and notifies the Justice of the Peace Court when hearings are requested.

Center may impose and collect costs set by town ordinance or resolution, not to exceed amounts charged by the Justice of the Peace Court for similar services.

Requires monthly written reports to the Mayor and Council of all fines and penalties imposed; prohibits establishing expected revenue budgets but allows prior-year activity estimates for financial planning only.

Mandates adequate facilities and staff with space physically separate from other town operations, particularly the Department of Public Safety, to maintain the Center's independence.