Florida’s “Pay-to-Stay” Law: The Unseen Barrier for Second-Chance Citizens

Florida Law Charges Former Inmates $50 a Day for Prison Stay, Even After Release

In Citrus County, Florida, the impact of being released from prison is often overshadowed by the financial burden placed on second-chance citizens. A little-known Florida law, known as “pay-to-stay”, charges inmates $50 a day for their prison stay, regardless of their ability to pay or their release status.

Shelby Hoffman, a clinical staff member at Tampa General Hospital Crystal River, is one of many individuals affected by this law. Despite turning her life around and pursuing a career in case management, Hoffman was shocked to learn that she owed over $127,000 in incarceration fees to the State of Florida.

After serving time for drug-related charges as a teenager, Hoffman worked hard to overcome her past and build a stable life for herself. However, the looming debt from her time in prison has become a barrier to achieving her career goals.

With the support of her grandmother, Hoffman attempted to challenge the legality of the fees but was denied by a judge citing state law. The Fines & Fees Justice Center in Washington, D.C. has deemed the law unconstitutional, as it disproportionately affects individuals who are unable to pay.

While some states have repealed similar laws, Florida continues to enforce “pay-to-stay”, leaving individuals like Hoffman trapped in a cycle of debt and limited opportunities. Advocates are calling for legislative changes to ensure that fines and fees are imposed fairly and do not hinder individuals from reintegrating into society.

This story sheds light on the challenges faced by former inmates in Florida and the need for reform in the criminal justice system to provide a true second chance for those seeking redemption.