IA HSB641

Magistrates must set bail at or above the uniform bond schedule amount unless they provide written justification for any deviation to a lower amount or percentage.

Release on personal recognizance is restricted to defendants charged only with nonviolent, nondrug simple or serious misdemeanors.

The uniform bond schedule cannot be used for arrests involving domestic abuse assault (section 708.6), possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (section 724.26), or forcible felonies.

Defendants may be released when court is not in session by verbal or written order of a judge or magistrate, but recognizance release remains limited to eligible misdemeanor charges.

The bill amends Iowa Code sections 804.21 and 811.1-811.2 to establish stricter bail and bond requirements effective upon enactment.