Koravee Prissanananthakul, a Bhumjaithai MP for Ang Thong and chief government whip, submitted the proposal to the House via first deputy speaker Mallika Jirapunvanit yesterday (May 7), reports the Bangkok Post.
The amendment seeks to address cases in which defendants, often from low-income backgrounds, are ordered by courts to pay fines but lack the financial means to do so. Under current law, they are required to serve jail time in lieu of payment, typically one day behind bars for every B500 owed.
Supachai Jaisamutr, head of the party’s legal team, said the imposition of jail terms for unpaid fines has become a significant social issue, particularly among the poor.
He said many individuals who are unable to pay fines end up losing their liberty due to financial constraints, prompting the party to push for legislative reform. The proposed amendment would allow courts to order community service as an alternative to incarceration.
The party plans to revise two sections of the Criminal Code and believes the proposal will gain broad support across parties. If the bill is placed on the legislative agenda promptly, it could be fast-tracked through three readings or reviewed by an ad hoc committee, Mr Supachai said.
Mr Koravee noted that lawmakers on Wednesday debated a motion on justice and fairness in parliament, during which several members raised concerns about prison overcrowding.
He said the amendment could help address the issue by providing a more equitable and practical alternative for offenders unable to pay fines.