CS/HB 1395 - Bail Bonds Summary

• Prohibits unlicensed or unqualified persons from transmitting or posting electronic bonds with attached powers of attorney; violators commit a third-degree felony.

• Authorizes duly qualified, licensed, appointed, and registered bail bond agents to transmit electronic bonds within their judicial circuit if the sheriff agrees to accept them.

• Requires the Department of Financial Services to approve a sample electronic power of attorney form for attachment to electronic bonds.

• Prohibits bail bond agents from authorizing unqualified persons to countersign bonds or powers of attorney, and from facilitating unlicensed individuals transmitting electronic bonds.

• Establishes that electronic bonds are considered original documents and may not be discharged on grounds that they lack original document status; requires sheriff approval and agent physical location in county where bond is posted.

• Effective date: July 1, 2014.