HB282 Summary

• Proposes an amendment to Section 16 of the Alabama Constitution of 1901 to establish a right to bail for all persons charged with crimes before conviction, with limited exceptions.

• Creates an exception for Class A felonies listed in Chapter 6 of Title 13A when proof is evident or presumption is great, allowing denial of bail if no conditions of release can reasonably protect the community from physical harm or ensure the accused's presence at trial.

• Prohibits excessive bail in all cases and specifies that bail denial may also protect the integrity of the judicial process.

• Requires the amendment to be submitted to voters on the election ballot with a specific description of its substance and Yes/No voting options.

• Passed the House on May 21, 2019 with a vote of 92 Yeas, 3 Nays, and 5 Abstains, pending voter approval for constitutional implementation.