SB 31 Summary

• Amends Section 12-14-5 of the Alabama Code to require municipal judges to release defendants charged with municipal violations punishable by fine or imprisonment on either an unsecured appearance bond (up to $1,000) or personal recognizance.

• Establishes that municipal judges must ensure defendants can afford bail without substantial hardship and must document this finding in written findings on the record.

• Allows judges to waive or reduce financial bail conditions if a defendant demonstrates indigency or inability to pay, and permits judges to impose additional non-financial conditions of release.

• Permits detention without release only if a preliminary determination finds the defendant poses a real and present danger to others or the public, or will not reasonably appear as required; requires a hearing within 48-72 hours with written findings.

• Provides exceptions requiring judges to follow specific procedures for domestic violence charges and driving under the influence cases; becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval.