California is employing a complex system of hidden fees attached to traffic tickets, significantly inflating the final cost for drivers. For instance, a $100 red light camera citation can balloon to $486 due to these additional charges, many of which are unrelated to traffic violations, such as those funding the Fish and Game Preservation Fund. Despite a 2018 audit highlighting these “seemingly arbitrary” fees and recommending a restructuring, lawmakers have largely failed to act. Critics argue this practice disproportionately burdens low-income drivers, contributing to unpaid fines and inefficient revenue collection. While officials state a commitment to transparency and fairness, the Assembly Transportation Committee head was reportedly unaware of the issue until contacted by CBS News. This practice appears to serve as a revenue-generating mechanism for the state, even as overall revenue from these tickets declines.