In Virginia, a movement is underway to break the chains of debt that currently burden many children and families. As someone who has personally experienced the weight of fines and fees, I am proud to advocate for change right here in Virginia. My fines as a teenager in my home state of Pennsylvania made it very hard to provide for myself and children as an adult. Going through this struggle has driven my passion to advocate for change so that others will not have to face a similar fate.
Leaving the justice system at 17 years old, I had earned my GED while incarcerated but had also accrued a debt of over a thousand dollars. I discovered the debt when I went to take the test for my learner’s permit after my release. At the time, I was working my first job earning $7.25 an hour and looking forward to driving to work instead of traveling several hours to get there via public transportation. When I was told I wouldn’t be able to take the test until I paid the amount — higher than any amount of money I’d earned up until that point — I had to put off my hopes and dreams of driving and focus on the more important things in life, like having a roof over my head and food in my refrigerator.
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Growing up involved in the foster care system in Philadelphia, my fines were directly imposed on me because the state would not take responsibility for them. Many children who aren’t in foster care have their fines paid by their parents; I didn’t have that choice. These fines were a major barrier in my life as I began to have children. The overall amount kept increasing because of my inability to pay due to interests and penalties. It wasn’t until I was hired full-time at Juvenile Law Center over 10 years after I initially was burdened with those fines, at 30 years old, that I was able to fully pay them off. I have seen firsthand the impact of fines and fees on marginalized communities, and I am determined to amplify their voices.
Marcus Jarvis
Two new bills introduced in Virginia, SB481 and its House counterpart HB1263, represent a crucial step towards a fairer and more equitable justice system. Calling for the abolition of juvenile fines and fees, these bills would provide a great relief to families in dire need of their personal resources as they overcome the many obstacles to reentering the community. These bills take a significant step toward ensuring equitable access to justice for young individuals and their families. By alleviating the financial burden imposed on youth and their caregivers, the legislation aims to promote fairness and reduce the barriers that hinder rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society.
The journey towards debt-free justice is ongoing, but we are making strides toward a brighter future. The bills introduced are not just pieces of legislation; they represent hope for a system that prioritizes equity and justice. As we continue this fight, I am inspired by the resilience of Virginians who refuse to be shackled by the burden of debt.
Virginia has the opportunity to lead the way toward debt-free justice, setting an example for the nation. I urge legislators and the community to join us in this movement, to collectively break the chains of debt and build a justice system that truly serves all Virginians. Together, we can create a legacy of fairness and justice for generations to come.
Marcus Jarvis is outreach and communications associate for Debt Free Justice, a national campaign to end fees and fines on youths in the criminal justice system.