Volusia Passes “Pay To Stay” Jail Policy

DeLand, FL – Now there are at least 51 counties in Florida that charge inmates fees. On Tuesday (Feb. 15) the Volusia County Council voted 6-1—with Councilwoman Barbara Girtman casting the lone dissenting vote—to approve charging inmates subsistence fees, or the money it takes to feed and clothe an inmate, as a way to recuperate operating costs. Initially the county was charging for things like medical co-pays, which typically consisted of an $8 fee for a sick call and $4 per medication, but now inmates will be charged a one-time $30 administrative fee and a daily $5 fee. A presentation by the county’s corrections division claimed that the county has the possibility of raising over $1 million in revenue with daily fees alone. However, Corrections Director Mark Flowers said there’s no way to know for sure exactly how much revenue the fees will generate. Flowers also hopes that the fees can help alleviate some of the burden on taxpayers. But some council members had a few concerns on their minds. Girtman asked what would happen if someone is wrongfully arrested or acquitted and they had to pay charges. Deputy County Attorney Chris Ryan said there’s a form someone can fill out to be reimbursed. Additionally, Ryan said the county will not pursue collections for those who were incarcerated before the fees were put in place. Another concern from Girtman was if someone wasn’t able to pay. According to Ryan, they won’t charge the inmate until the inmate has the funds available. “We still continue to provide them the same services, we just run up a red ledger in case the day comes where they do get a payment into their account,” said Ryan. Meanwhile, Councilwoman Post was concerned with how the fees could affect the county’s recidivism rate. Flowers, however, didn’t provide an exact answer and said he doesn’t like talking about recidivism rates, as they’re often high. Fees are expected to be implemented sometime around October 1.