Poverty is criminalized in all 50 states

Do you see this happening in your communities?

Pamela,    The United States criminal legal system has effectively made poverty a crime. Don't believe us? Consider this: A person who has no place to sleep at night can be ticketed, fined, and even jailed for sitting down on the street and closing their eyes. A person unable to pay a traffic ticket could face spiraling debt from interest and late fees, lose their driver's license, or even be sent to jail. Most people detained in jail while awaiting their court dates are there because of a bail amount they cannot afford to pay. Are you ok with a system that criminalizes human survival, Pamela?   Jurisdictions across the country routinely impose fines and fees throughout the criminal legal process, from arrest and booking to sentencing and incarceration. These charges can quickly add up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars—and for people with low incomes, the impact can be devastating. When people cannot afford to pay their court debt, they often face more fines, more fees, and a host of other consequences. People lose their jobs, their homes, and even the ability to care for their children. Vera is working to end this practice that drains critical financial resources away from the most vulnerable. Our research from Florida to New Mexico to Washington State has revealed the devastating toll of fines, fees, and bail on people, especially those living in poverty, as well as the discriminatory way Black people and other people of color are burdened with court debts. And together with our partners and other advocates, we're helping to create meaningful change. Last April, New Mexico passed legislation to eliminate all post-adjudication fees for adults in criminal court, joining California as one of only two states in the country to eliminate these types of fees. As we celebrate this win for criminal legal system reform, there is more work to be done. That's why Vera is dedicated to stopping the criminalization of poverty and ending mass incarceration so that people and communities thrive >>     Monetary punishment for people already experiencing poverty is not justice—it's cruel and ineffective. Vera is fighting for a justice system that keeps families together, builds safety in our communities, and serves all people.   Is that a future you are willing to fight for, Pamela?   In solidarity, Vera Institute of Justice © 2024 Vera Institute of Justice. All Rights Reserved.   Vera Institute of Justice 34 35th Street | Suite 4-2A | Brooklyn, NY 11232 (212) 334-1300   Privacy Statement | unsubscribe