Bill > HB2490

This bill modifies Arizona's bail and release laws by updating two existing statutes to change how bail and pre-trial release are determined. The bill expands the criteria for denying bail, including considering whether a person has entered the United States illegally when evaluating bail for serious felony offenses. It introduces new factors for judicial officers to consider when setting bail, such as the defendant's financial ability to pay bail and potential racial or ethnic disparities in jail populations. The bill requires judicial officers to examine multiple factors when determining release conditions, including the victim's views, the nature of the offense, the defendant's criminal history, community safety risks, and personal circumstances. Additionally, the bill mandates specific conditions for certain felony charges, such as electronic monitoring and prohibiting contact with victims, and requires judicial officers to inform defendants about potential penalties for violating release conditions. The legislation aims to provide a more comprehensive and nuanced approach to pre-trial release decisions, balancing public safety concerns with individual rights and potential systemic biases in the criminal justice system.

Justice

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/82285