Title
Judicial Council-Sponsored Legislation: Uniform Hourly Rate for Community Service in Lieu of Infraction Fine (Action Required)
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Summary
The Policy Coordination and Liaison Committee and the Traffic Advisory Committee recommend that Penal Code section 1209.5 be amended to provide a uniform rate throughout the state for converting infraction fines into community service hours. Specifically, the committees propose a uniform hourly rate of double the California state minimum wage for community service performed in lieu of paying infraction fines. This proposal is in response to Judicial Council directives to consider recommendations to promote access to justice in infraction cases.
Recommendation
The Policy Coordination and Liaison Committee and Traffic Advisory Committee recommend that the Judicial Council sponsor legislation to amend Penal Code section 1209.5, as follows:
1. Provide a uniform hourly rate for infractions of double the lowest schedule for California minimum wage.
2. Permit a court by local rule to increase the uniform rate.