Bill > HB0528

This bill modifies Tennessee's laws regarding bail bonds and professional bondsmen, specifically changing the premium fees that can be charged for bail bonds. The bill requires professional bondsmen and insurance company agents to charge premium fees between 10% and 15% of the bond's face value, depending on whether the defendant is a Tennessee resident or not. For Tennessee residents, the premium fee is set at a flat 10%, while non-residents can be charged between 10% and 15%. The bill also allows bondsmen to accept premium payments in installments, with at least 50% paid at the time of bond signing and the full amount to be paid within 12 months, without charging additional interest. Additionally, the bill mandates that bondsmen provide a detailed notice to defendants explaining the fee structure, their rights, and the conditions under which a bondsman may surrender them. The changes aim to standardize and clarify the bail bond process, providing more transparency for defendants and setting clear guidelines for professional bondsmen. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025.

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https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0528&ga=114