Rep. Melanie Miller Introduces Fees and Fines Grace Period Bill, Supports Reentry for Formerly Incarcerated Ohioans

State Representative Melanie Miller (R-Ashland) held a press conference today introducing new legislation that works to provide a 180-day grace period on court-assessed fines and fees for formerly incarcerated Ohioans as they reenter society. 

“When someone is released from incarceration, we know that there are many obstacles that can stand in the way of success,” said Miller. “Today, through this important piece of legislation, we can help individuals overcome a huge barrier that has the potential to change the trajectory of their path forward.”

This legislation would allow 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. 

Representative Miller was joined at the press conference by Ally Alfonsetti, a Legislative Strategist at Prison Fellowship to highlight the impact House Bill 296 will have on Ohioans returning to the community after prison. 

House Bill 296 awaits a committee assignment. 

To see Rep. Miller’s full remarks from today’s press conference, please click here.