Low traffic ticket fee ticks off politicians

COLUMBIA - State legislators were counting on a new $25 fee on all traffic and other tickets to bring in $25 million this year, but its on track to produce less than half that.

Some small city courts have not sent in any fees at all. Some big counties are only on record as having sent $25, the fee from one ticket.

The General Assembly created the fees to offset cuts to the budgets of law enforcement agencies and solicitors offices.

With its share of the money, the State Law Enforcement Division had hoped to buy cars. Other agencies were seeking equipment. Solicitors wanted to hire more attorneys.

"It was all supposed to be for personnel," said William Bilton, executive director of the Prosecution Coordination Commission. "We have not gotten a penny."

Lawmakers have relied more and more on fees and fines to pay for ongoing services. It is one way to raise revenue without raising taxes - anathema to the Republican-led House and Senate, and GOP Gov. Mark Sanford.

For now, the state is not giving up on the $25 fee. However, it is lowering expectations for next year, saying the fee probably will produce only $11 million next year, instead of $25 million.

Legislators, court professionals and treasurers acknowledge one of the biggest problems is administering and collecting the $25 fee.

It is collected in three different types of courts. It is sent through at least three sets of hands: clerks of courts and magistrates, then county and municipal treasurers, then the state. There is no set schedule for sending in the money, monthly or otherwise.

State Treasurer Grady Patterson, a Democrat, said its realistic to lower expectations for how much money will come in.

"When you cut state expenditures, you have to cut services in a community," Patterson spokesman Trav Robertson said. "Whether you like it or not, it means fewer policemen patrolling and giving tickets.

"It means combining some court sessions, doing it once a month instead of twice."

But Robertson also said the treasurer wants legislation making it clear how and when to collect the fee.