Bill would cut federal grants to states that limit cash bail

What does this do?

This bill would make states or local governments ineligible for Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant funding if they have laws limiting judges from requiring cash bail for serious crimes like murder, rape, robbery, assault, rioting, looting, vandalism, or fleeing police. The restriction would begin the first fiscal year after enactment and continue every year after.

Who does it affect?

States and cities with bail reform policies, along with police departments, courts, and criminal justice agencies that rely on Byrne grant funding.

Why does it matter?

Jurisdictions would need to choose between keeping bail reform policies or retaining eligibility for federal grant money used for equipment, training, and personnel.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Loss of Byrne justice grant funding
• Affects police, courts, agencies
• Starts first fiscal year after law