Interim Report: A Framework to Improve How Fines, Fees, Restitution, and Child Support are Assessed and Collected from People Convicted of Crimes
This report describes how fines, fees, and restitution are assessed in criminal courts in Texas, how these court-ordered financial obligations are collected, and how these assessments and collections account for child support that defendants may already owe. This report reviews the challenges court officials encounter under the current system and recommends strategies to clarify and streamline existing policies. Using the findings and recommendations in this report, state and local government policymakers can launch an effort to increase financial accountability among people who commit crimes, improve rates of collection for child support and victim restitution, and ensure people's transition from prisons and jails to the community is safe and successful.
Corrections leaders balance the complex priorities of maintaining public safety, operating secure facilities, providing needed care and services…
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The Council of State Governments (CSG) Justice Center has launched the Collaborating for Youth and Public Safety Initiative…
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Washington, DC – Termination of bipartisan Department of Justice grants appropriated by Congress last week drew the attention…
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Apply Now for Resident Analyst Program to Increase Data Analysis Capacity at Departments of Corrections
Corrections leaders balance the complex priorities of maintaining public safety, operating secure facilities, providing needed care and services to the incarcerated population, and coordinating with other agencies.
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Six States Commit to Improving Statewide Strategies to Address Youth Crime, Violence and Behavioral Health
The Council of State Governments (CSG) Justice Center has launched the Collaborating for Youth and Public Safety Initiative (CYPSI) in partnership with six states: California, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, and Rhode Island. The initiative will help states develop, fund, and effectively implement a research-based service continuum to improve public safety and behavioral health, education, and other outcomes for youth.
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Statement by The Council of State Governments Justice Center on Termination of Public Safety Grants
Washington, DC – Termination of bipartisan Department of Justice grants appropriated by Congress last week drew the attention of leaders and organizations across the country.
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Amid Federal Funding Cuts, Here’s How the CSG Justice Center Can Help You Advance Safety and Justice
Every day, public safety depends on thousands of state and…
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Explainer: How a New Law in Arkansas Tackles Crime, Recidivism, and Community Supervision Challenges
In April 2025, Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed a package of bipartisan criminal justice legislation into law, which is designed to increase public safety and improve community supervision. The legislation passed nearly unanimously.
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Bipartisan Group of 88 Lawmakers Push for Continued Funding for Reentry and Recidivism Programs
A bipartisan group of 88 lawmakers, led by Representatives Carol Miller (R-WV) and Danny Davis (D-IL), wrote a letter calling for continued funding for the Second Chance Act in the Fiscal Year 2026 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies appropriations bill.
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