MichiganCourts would check ability to pay traffic infraction costs
If Senate Bill 1089 becomes law, courts would check whether people found responsible for covered traffic infractions are indigent before imposing certain payments.
What it does
Before imposing a fine, court costs or a justice system assessment for a covered traffic infraction, judges would assess whether the person is indigent. People found indigent could still owe a fine, but not costs or the assessment.
Argument forPeople found indigent would not owe court costs or the justice system assessment, which could reduce the amount they must pay.
Argument againstPeople who are not found indigent could still owe fines, costs and assessments, while judges would need to assess each person’s ability to pay.
More detail
Judges and court magistrates would assess each person's indigency before imposing a fine, costs or a justice system assessment. This applies to people facing a civil infraction under the Michigan Vehicle Code or a local ordinance that substantially matches it. If the person is found indigent, the judge or magistrate may still order a fine, but must not order costs or a justice system assessment. This requirement would begin after the amendatory act takes effect, but the bill would take effect only if Senate Bill 1089 is enacted.
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Where it stands
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Looking ahead
No hearings or votes scheduled.
History
- 2026
- Sep 30REFERRED TO COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLELatest
- Sep 30REPORTED FAVORABLY WITHOUT AMENDMENT 9/22/2026Minor
- Jul 2REFERRED TO COMMITTEE ON CIVIL RIGHTS, JUDICIARY, AND PUBLIC SAFETYMinor
- Jul 2INTRODUCED BY SENATOR MARY CAVANAGHIntroduced
Criminal JusticePublic SafetyCivil Rights & Voting