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Bill

SB 111

Prohibiting fines and fees from being assessed against a juvenile or a juvenile's parent, guardian or custodian in a case pursuant to the revised Kansas juvenile justice code.

2025-2026 Regular Session

Kansas bill eliminates all fines and fees against juveniles and their parents in juvenile justice cases, shifting costs to the state.

Died in Committee
#childrenandminors #crimes #punishmentandcriminalprocedure
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Bill Summary · SB 111

Legislative bill overview

SB 111 would prohibit Kansas courts from assessing fines and fees against juveniles or their parents/guardians/custodians in juvenile justice cases under the state's revised juvenile justice code. This represents a blanket elimination of financial penalties in the juvenile justice system, covering court costs, processing fees, restitution orders, and similar charges that courts currently impose.

Why is this important

Juvenile justice fees create significant barriers to family stability and rehabilitation by burdening already-vulnerable households with substantial debt. Research indicates these financial penalties often drive families into deeper poverty, increase recidivism by creating economic desperation, and disproportionately affect low-income and minority communities. The practical impact would shift the financial burden of juvenile justice operations entirely to the state rather than families involved in the system.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact and budget concerns: Eliminating a revenue source forces the state to absorb all juvenile justice costs; fiscal conservatives may argue this strains budgets while fiscal progressives counter it's an investment in reducing recidivism
  • Restitution to victims: The bill's scope on restitution payments to crime victims is unclear—opponents may argue victims shouldn't lose compensation rights, while supporters contend juveniles shouldn't bear adult-level financial responsibility
  • Parental accountability debate: Disagreement over whether charging parents teaches financial responsibility versus unfairly punishing parents for children's actions; some argue fees incentivize parental involvement in rehabilitation

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

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