HI HB294

Establishes a rebuttable presumption that persons charged with crimes are entitled to unconditional release (personal recognizance, supervised release, or conditional release) and will appear in court.

Requires courts to hold a hearing within 40 hours after arrest before granting unconditional release, with the State bearing the burden of proof by clear and convincing evidence to deny release.

Limits denial of unconditional release to cases involving serious crimes (murder, attempted murder, or Class A/B felonies, with specified exceptions) when there is serious risk of flight, obstruction of justice, danger to persons, or illegal activity.

Requires courts to consider non-financial alternatives to bail before ordering bail as a condition of release.

Permits bail denial only after a hearing determines that no condition or combination of conditions will reasonably assure appearance or protect public safety; becomes effective July 1, 2019.