Bill > S04957

This bill amends existing laws to require the chief administrator of the courts and the division of criminal justice services to collect and report comprehensive bail and pretrial detention data every six months and annually, respectively. These reports will include detailed information about defendants, such as age, gender, race, ethnicity, criminal charges, bail amounts, release conditions, and case outcomes. The key innovation is that these reports must now be delivered to the State Commission on Judicial Conduct, which will study the data for potential evidence of bias or prejudice by judges. If the commission finds such evidence in the reports, it can initiate investigations, hear complaints, and comment on judicial bias in its annual reports. This legislation aims to increase transparency in the judicial system and provide a mechanism for identifying and addressing potential systemic biases in bail and pretrial detention decisions. The changes will help monitor judicial decision-making and provide a structured process for reviewing potential discriminatory practices in the criminal justice system.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4957