Bill > HB1202

This bill modifies Missouri's bail and pretrial release procedures by establishing new criteria for judges to consider when setting bail. Specifically, judges must now evaluate whether a defendant poses a danger to victims or the community, is a flight risk, has committed violent or sexual offenses in the past five years, or has previously failed to appear in court. For defendants with prior offenses, the bill creates a presumption of bail ineligibility, but allows exceptions for individuals with severe medical conditions, those who are primary caregivers, pregnant women, people with jobs or educational commitments, those participating in rehabilitation programs, or individuals with comprehensive medical treatment plans. The bill requires release hearings to be conducted within 48 hours of arrest, with the prosecuting attorney bearing the burden of proving flight risk or community danger. Additionally, the bill mandates that bail bonds reflect the seriousness of the current charge and require more frequent reporting for prior offenders. The legislation aims to provide a more structured and comprehensive approach to pretrial release decisions, balancing public safety concerns with individual circumstances.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB1202&year=2025&code=R