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The article examines the imposition of fines and fees within the American criminal legal system, highlighting how these financial penalties often burden individuals without consideration for their ability to pay and fail to improve public safety or deter crime. Topics include the disproportionate impact of fines on people of color and low-income individuals, legislative changes aimed at limiting these financial penalties, and the negative consequences of legal debt on various aspects of life.

The article focuses on the practice of imposing fines and fees within the American criminal legal system, highlighting how these financial penalties disproportionately affect marginalized communities. It discusses recent legislative efforts in various states to eliminate or reduce such fines and fees, citing research showing their adverse effects on individuals' financial stability and likelihood of reoffending, particularly among youth and people of color.