July 6, 2020–Many states suspend an individual’s driver’s license solely because they cannot afford to pay a debt they owe their state or local court system. This makes it more difficult for these individuals to pay the underlying debt and prevents them from being able to maintain stable employment. These concerns are even more pressing given COVID-19.
Due Process Institute has joined a bipartisan coalition of 15 groups working with Congressional leaders to end these counterproductive policies by passing the Driving for Opportunity Act. This bill will help states who want to enact smart, data-driven policies related to the use of fines and fees in our justice system.