Rep. Melanie Miller Provides Sponsor Testimony on Fees and Fines Grace Period Bill

State Representative Melanie Miller (R-Ashland) provided sponsor testimony on House Bill 296, legislation she is sponsoring that provides a 180-day grace period on court-assessed fines and fees for recently formerly incarcerated Ohioans as they reenter society. 

“Every year, about 18,000 Ohioans reenter society after serving their time. House Bill 296 is about recognizing their potential and removing one of the biggest barriers standing in their way,” said Miller. “When returning citizens can access stable employment, housing, and transportation, they’re far more likely to succeed—and that success means safer, stronger, and more resilient communities across Ohio.”

The bill allows Ohioans returning from incarceration to have a 6-month grace period where the individual is not required to pay any outstanding court-assessed fines, fees, financial sanctions, or costs from a criminal proceeding. By giving individuals a 6-month head start to find quality employment and stable housing before being required to pay back their fines and fees, more Ohioans can be set up for success in their efforts to leave crime and addiction behind. 

Currently, three other states have similar legislation including Alabama, Tennessee, and Oklahoma. 

House Bill 296 continues to be vetted in the House Judiciary Committee. 

To see Rep. Miller’s sponsor testimony, click here.