Incarceration often leads to financial burdens, as many states impose fees on inmates that can transfer to family members or follow them post-release. Data shows that as of December 2024, 48 states allow at least one type of 'pay-to-stay' fee. Most incarcerated individuals earn minimal wages, less than $1 per day, making it difficult for them to pay fines. As a result, debts accumulate, often impacting families financially. Women, particularly Black women, face disproportionate harm from these fees, with wages declining more significantly post-conviction than their male counterparts.
"As of December 2024, 48 states allow at least one 'pay-to-stay' fee, and 42 states permit room and board charges for incarcerated adults."
"Many incarcerated people earn less than $1/day, so balances grow - and carry into life after release, leading to debts they're expected to repay post-incarceration."
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