During a recent government meeting, Representative Decker presented House Bill 820, aimed at establishing a statewide database and public website to track civil and criminal fines and fees imposed on individuals by Kentucky courts and agencies. The bill, co-sponsored by Representatives Dietze and Mosher, seeks to enhance transparency and accountability in the state's judicial financial practices.

Decker emphasized the importance of this initiative, citing personal experiences from her work with a nonprofit organization that assists homeless women and children. She highlighted how fines and fees, particularly related to traffic violations, can lead to devastating consequences, including loss of driving privileges and subsequent job losses, especially in rural areas lacking public transportation.

The proposal has garnered support from various stakeholders, including the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC), which has indicated no objections to the reporting requirements. Decker has also engaged with local officials, judges, and advocacy groups, including the NAACP, to gather insights and address potential concerns regarding the bill.

Alastair Whitney, legislative counsel at the Institute for Justice, also spoke in favor of the bill, noting that it would create a centralized database to provide a clearer understanding of how court-imposed debts affect individuals, particularly those from low-income backgrounds. Whitney pointed out that many states have already implemented similar measures to improve transparency and accountability in their judicial systems.

The proposed legislation aims not only to collect data on fines and fees but also to analyze their impact on individuals' financial stability and the broader implications for the criminal justice system. Decker concluded by inviting feedback from her colleagues, underscoring the need for informed public policy based on comprehensive data regarding fines and fees in Kentucky.