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Bill would let defendants work in community to pay off debt
BOSTON — Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker wants to let criminal defendants who fail to pay fines or fees perform community service instead of going to jail.
The Republican is pushing a bill to allow the community service option. Baker says that will help create a fairer system where punishments fit better with crimes.
Under current law, defendants who fail to pay fines, fees and assessments can be incarcerated until the debt is satisfied, at a rate of $30 a day.
The bill filed Tuesday will help defendants avoid jail by agreeing to community service.
Read more: http://www.bostonherald.com/news/local_politics/2017/04/bill_would_let_defendants_work_in_community_to_pay_off_debt