A bill to amend title 18, United States Code, to authorize imposition of a fine as an additional penalty for an offense, to increase the maximum fines for various offenses, to establish an alternative maximum fine based on the extent to which pecuniary gain results from committing an offense, to establish criteria applicable to the imposition and modification of fines, and for other purposes.
Criminal Fines Reform Act of 1979 - Redefines a petty offense as a misdemeanor with a penalty not exceeding six months imprisonment or a fine of $2,500 (currently, six months imprisonment or a $500 fine).
Adds to the general provisions of the Federal criminal code a new section relating to the amount and imposition of fines.
Stipulates that any offense punishable by imprisonment shall be punishable by imprisonment, a fine, or both.
Sets forth: (1) a fine schedule which correlates maximum fines which can be imposed upon an individual to specified maximum terms of imprisonment; and (2) the maximum fines which may be imposed upon a person, other than an individual, upon conviction of a Federal crime.
Allows a person who derives pecuniary gain in the commission of an offense to be sentenced to pay a fine not exceeding twice such gain.
Enumerates factors which the court must consider in determining the amount of a fine. Allows the court to remit and modify the terms of payment of a fine upon a finding that the defendant has become unable to pay the fine due to circumstances beyond his or her control, but disallows such discretion with respect to a fine imposed upon conviction of an offense punishable by imprisonment and a fine or in any case where the court lacks proper authority.
Introduced in House
Introduced in House
Referred to House Committee on the Judiciary.
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