Washington, DC imposes some of the highest traffic and parking fines in the country. These fines double after just 30 days if unpaid—placing a harsh and often unmanageable burden on residents, many of whom are working families trying to make ends meet.

In 2021, the District provided a temporary ticket amnesty program that allowed residents to pay off outstanding fines without penalties. It was a lifeline for many and a model of how local government can offer real, meaningful relief.

Today, thousands of DC residents still face mounting fines and license suspensions that impact their ability to work, care for their families, or even legally drive. While a new pilot program is currently being tested for lower-income residents, we believe relief should be available to all DC residents who are struggling—especially when these fees and penalties escalate so quickly.

We respectfully call on the DC City Council and Mayor Muriel Bowser to:

• Reinstate a citywide ticket amnesty program to help residents clear their outstanding balances without penalties.
• Reform the fine system to allow more reasonable payment windows before fines double (e.g., 60–90 days instead of 30).
• Explore alternatives to flat-rate or doubling fines, such as income-based penalties or tiered payment plans.
• Ensure any successful pilot programs are expanded to benefit all DC drivers—not just low-income residents.

Traffic safety is important, but the current fine structure punishes people based on their ability to pay—not their willingness to follow the rules. We believe DC can find solutions that promote accountability and economic justice.

We encourage DC residents to sign this petition to show our elected officials that this issue directly affects their constituents—and that we are calling for practical, compassionate, and equitable solutions.