A bill that will change the way judges in Tennessee set bail is headed to the governor’s desk.
House Bill 1719, “As introduced, removes the defendant’s financial condition as a consideration for the magistrate in determining the amount of bail necessary to reasonably assure the appearance of the defendant at trial and protect the safety of the public.”
The bill’s sponsor, Representative John Gillespie from Memphis said, “There is a revolving door of criminals going in and out of our judicial system. Time and again, we have seen the tragic consequences of allowing people back into the community based on their ability to pay. We must instead focus on the danger that person poses to the community. This bill is an important step in making Memphis and all of Tennessee safer.”