Texas SB1776 limits fines and costs to no more than 5% of a defendant's monthly income without their agreement.

Texas SB1776 amends the Code of Criminal Procedure to restrict the amount of fines and costs a court can require a defendant to pay. Specifically, courts may not mandate more than five percent of a defendant's monthly income for fines and costs without the defendant's consent. This change applies to defendants sentenced for offenses on or after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025. Courts retain the discretion to direct defendants to pay fines and costs in full at sentencing, at a later date, or in installments.

Texas SB1776 limits fines and costs to no more than 5% of a defendant's monthly income without their agreement.

Texas SB1776 amends the Code of Criminal Procedure to restrict the amount of fines and costs a court can require a defendant to pay. Specifically, courts may not mandate more than five percent of a defendant's monthly income for fines and costs without the defendant's consent. This change applies to defendants sentenced for offenses on or after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025. Courts retain the discretion to direct defendants to pay fines and costs in full at sentencing, at a later date, or in installments.