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Bill

HB 1263

Abolition of juvenile fines and fees; criminal offenses.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Elizabeth Bennett-Parker and 3 co-sponsors

Virginia bill eliminates fines and fees for juveniles adjudicated delinquent, removing financial penalties from youth criminal justice proceedings.

Left in Finance and Appropriations
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Bill Summary · HB 1263

Legislative bill overview

HB 1263 would eliminate fines and fees imposed on juveniles found delinquent of criminal offenses in Virginia. The bill removes financial penalties from the juvenile justice system while potentially maintaining other consequences like probation, restitution, or detention. This represents a significant shift in how Virginia handles monetary consequences for youth offenders.

Why is this important

Juvenile fines and fees can create long-term financial burdens on young people and their families, potentially affecting educational and economic opportunities. Proponents argue this removes barriers to rehabilitation and prevents debt cycles that trap families in poverty. Critics contend it eliminates an accountability mechanism and potential revenue source for court systems and victim compensation programs.

Potential points of contention

  • Accountability and consequences: Whether removing fines eliminates meaningful consequences for juvenile offenders or unfairly impacts victims who might receive restitution
  • Fiscal impact: How courts and victim compensation programs will function without juvenile fine revenue, and whether this creates budget gaps elsewhere in the justice system
  • Equity concerns: Whether fines disproportionately harm low-income families (supporting abolition) or whether elimination unfairly treats affluent youth the same as disadvantaged youth (opposing abolition)

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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