Nixon set to take action on limiting municipal court fines

Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon is expected to sign into law the first significant measure state lawmakers have taken to address concerns raised after the fatal police shooting of a black 18-year-old in Ferguson.

Nixon is scheduled to announce action on the bill Thursday in St. Louis.

The legislation would cap fines for minor traffic violations and reduce revenue most cities can collect from traffic fines and fees.

Nixon in January asked lawmakers to pass a bill addressing issues raised with the state’s local courts.

Supporters say it will address the predatory revenue-generating practices detailed in a federal Justice Department report on Ferguson.

The city fell under international spotlight after a white police officer fatally shot Michael Brown and protests ensued.

This story was originally published July 9, 2015 at 7:57 AM with the headline "Nixon set to take action on limiting municipal court fines."