Just swipe it.
Using credit and debit cards to pay bail bonds and outstanding tickets may soon be possible in Utah cities and counties.
Members of the House Political Subdivisions Standing Committee met Wednesday to discuss the realities of HB51, sponsored by Rep. Joe Murray, R-Ogden.
A similar bill was passed two years ago allowing state offices to accept electronic payment options for various tickets, fees and other state-related expenses incurred by citizens.
"This is one of those bills that is getting close to everyone liking," Murray said, adding that the policy has worked well for the state. This measure would allow city and county governments the option to participate.
The only controversy created by the bill is how creditor fees would be paid.
Typically, a uniform fee of 3 to 5 percent of the purchase price is set by creditors. Retailers often absorb the cost to allow cards to be used at their locations. If HB51 passes, such fees would not be a burden to city and county offices, but to the payee.
"Additional costs will be paid by the consumer," Murray said.
Weber County Deputy Attorney Reed M. Richards said the suggestion came from the sheriff's association with the intention of using it at county jails.
"Many in jail are there because they couldn't pay their fines or bail, or they don't have cash to use in the commissary," he said. "This would allow the state to take a credit card or debit card for such items."
Rep. Rhonda Rudd Menlove, R-Tremonton, pointed out that the only deficit to counties would most likely match that of returned checks.
However, Richards said cities and counties have advantages that retailers don't — those who choose to bounce checks or stop payment to these entities might incur further wrath upon their records.
E-mail: wleonard@desnews.com