Bill > HB2444

This bill modifies several aspects of criminal sentencing and release procedures in Kansas. It clarifies that jail credit, which is time served in jail before sentencing, can only be applied to one case when multiple consecutive sentences are imposed, preventing defendants from using the same jail time to reduce multiple sentences. The bill also establishes special sentencing rules for individuals who commit a new felony while already on probation, parole, or postrelease supervision for a prior felony; specifically, it creates a presumption of imprisonment for these offenders, particularly when the prior offense was a non-drug felony, and restricts the court's ability to impose lighter sentences in such cases. Furthermore, for defendants who commit a new felony while under supervision or on bond for a prior felony, the bill mandates secured minimum appearance bonds (ranging from $50,000 to $250,000 depending on the severity of the new charge) unless the court makes specific findings that the defendant is not a flight risk or a danger to public safety. The bill also introduces a rebuttable presumption that non-citizens who are unlawfully present in the United States are a flight risk, impacting their release on bond. Finally, it repeals existing laws related to these provisions.

Justice

https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2444/