The government is preparing to tighten sanctions for individuals who do not pay their fines, including by linking their payment directly to the right to drive.
The Ministry of Development published on Tuesday evening, in decision-making transparency, the draft law for which the Executive is set to take responsibility in Parliament, a comprehensive regulatory act that is part of the public administration reform package.
Gradual increase in fines for non-payment
One of the main provisions of the project focuses on harsher penalties for non-payment of fines.
Thus, if a fine is not paid within three months from the due date, its value will be automatically increased by 30%.
In case the arrears persist and after six months, a new 30% increase is applied, which can lead to a total increase of up to 60% compared to the initial amount.
Outsourced debt recovery
The project also provides for the possibility for local authorities to assign the claims resulting from non-payment of fines to bailiffs or specialized operators in debt recovery.
The amounts will be recovered including execution costs and a profit for the involved operators, the assignment being formalized through a contract.
Driver's license linked to payment of all debts
Another important novelty is conditioning the reduction of the driving license suspension period on the full payment of debts to the local budget.
According to the document, drivers sanctioned for traffic offenses will only be able to benefit from the reduction of the license suspension if they prove the payment of all outstanding obligations to the local budget of the administrative-territorial unit of residence, not just the fine that led to the suspension.
Part of a broader package of reforms
The measures regarding fines and driver's licenses are part of a larger legislative package, which includes, among others, staff reductions in public administration, tax increases for buildings constructed without authorization, and harsher penalties for taxpayers who do not fulfill their fiscal obligations.
The government argues that these measures are necessary to reduce arrears, increase collection rates, and hold citizens accountable.
On the other hand, critics warn that the new provisions could put additional pressure on individuals with low incomes.