Fines and Fees Justice Center

There are two ways to read the story linked below. On one hand, it's a good overview of some very promising #FinesandFees reform proposals that were recently signed into law in #Delaware. On the other hand, though - and the way I'd encourage anyone seeing this to read it - this is a testament to *years* of incredible, tireless, resilient community mobilization, grassroots partnerships, and sophisticated inside-outside strategizing that Fines and Fees Justice Center was a part of (long, long before I was on the team). There were so many steps along the way. There were so many moments, big and small, that helped build and empower a long-term movement for fines and fees reform in the state. And that's exactly what's possible now: ongoing, deep, visionary advocacy efforts to continue moving the needle on these issues. And that's our goal at FFJC. Always. Beyond helping secure real and groundbreaking policy reform victories, our north star is to institutionalize power, knowledge, and resources in states across the country so that those states can work on fines and fees for the long run. There's a lifetime of work left to do. Let's keep going!

"A minor ticket should never put one’s livelihood at risk. It’s morally imperative that states correct past harms and rewrite the status quo to build a healthier, more equitable future for all." In a new op-ed for Route Fifty, @Brooke Tucker of RWJF, sheds light on the disproportionate impact of fines and fees on marginalized communities, the roots of these policies in the Reconstruction Era, and highlights the critical work being done by the Fines and Fees Justice Center, together with advocates across the nation, to reform unjust fines and fees. Read the full piece below ⬇ https://lnkd.in/dbPA9xCi

🔔 Reminder: Join us for session #4 of our budget-series tomorrow! 🔔 Do you want to enhance your understanding of how to use public budget cycles to advance policy change? *Join us live tomorrow, August 1st at 2 PM ET*, where we will delve into: How public budgets shape and drive policy changes Identifying key advocacy opportunities at each stage of the budget cycle Evaluating the pros and cons of using the budget cycle versus stand-alone bills for reform This session is essential for advocates looking to diversify their tactics and level-up their toolkit. Don't miss out! Register today: https://lnkd.in/eEaigQq9

🌟What are the phases of a public budget cycle? How can advocates strategically time their fines and fees reforms to maximize impact? Join our live webinar Aug 1st at 2pm ET as we explore the ins-and-outs of public budget cycles and help you identify key decision-makers and opportunities for advocacy. Register today👉 https://lnkd.in/eEaigQq9

We're #hiring a new Nevada Deputy Director in United States. Apply today or share this post with your network.

We're #hiring a new Digital Media Manager in United States. Apply today or share this post with your network.

🚨 Important update for anyone who missed yesterday's application deadline! There are a *few* additional spots available for the Cities and Counties for Fine and Fee Justice all-expense paid event in Santa Fe, NM. This unparalleled opportunity is your chance to take a deep dive into the problem of fines and fees, connect with like-minded policymakers and advocates, and create actionable roadmaps for reform. To be considered for these additional spots, your application must be submitted by *Wednesday, July 17, 2024 (11:59 pm PT)* View the full event details, eligibility requirements, and application here: https://lnkd.in/e7grwsmA

Do you want to play a direct role in advancing fines and fees reform in Nevada? Our Nevada state team is looking for their next Deputy Director! As FFJC's new NV Deputy Director, you'll be working with community-based organizations, state and local lawmakers, and justice-system stakeholders to drive policy change across the state. Candidates must be located in the Las Vegas metro area. Learn more about the role and how to apply here 👉 https://lnkd.in/ehxU7Acg

Sharing a fantastic, short piece from colleagues at Fines and Fees Justice Center about how government budgets are not just a reflection of leaders' true values, but also a powerful investigative tool to expose policymakers' incessant reliance on unjust, inequitable, racially harmful fines, fees, and debt-collection practices. That reliance doesn't just harm the people who get stuck with fines and fees. It harms communities writ large. If you, as a policymaker, are relying on sanction-based revenues to balance your budget, then you're relying on people in your community being exposed to the potential harms that generate those sanctions. For example, looking at the D.C. mayor's budget, you can see: "The truth is to maintain the revenue levels her administration depends on, she needs people to keep speeding." This will take you less than 5 minutes to read, and it's so, so worth it - please read and share! #fines #fees #cjreform

🌟 Calling all local policymakers! This is an opportunity you won't want to miss. Cities & Counties for Fine and Fee Justice (CCFFJ) is hosting an exclusive two-day, all-expense paid event dedicated to providing policymakers and advocates with the expertise, tools, and battle-tested strategies they need to advance local fine and fee reforms. Who should apply: -City and county officials (Mayor’s Office, Budget Office, City Council Members, Office of Racial Equity) -Community organizers and advocates (non-profits, faith-based groups) -Court staff(prosecutors, public defenders, judges, etc.) What you can expect: -In-depth overview of the issue of government reliance on fines and fees and its impacts on communities -Intro to CCFFJ’s adaptable, advocacy roadmap, which includes tools and resources you can use to lay the groundwork for reform -Focused, round-table discussions with policymakers and advocates leading reform efforts across the nation Event Details: When: October 16 – 17 Where: Santa Fe, New Mexico Cost: All expenses covered for two attendees! Applications are due tomorrow, July 10! Click here to apply 👉 https://lnkd.in/eCkfttcV