IL SB1966

Creates a Public Defender Bail Reform Grant Program administered by the State Appellate Defender to assist county public defenders in implementing counsel requirements at bail hearings under Section 109-1 of the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1963.

Makes counties without a full-time public defender eligible to apply for grants as of January 1, 2019, with the Commission authorized to establish additional county population thresholds for eligibility.

Requires the Chief Judge of the Circuit Court to submit grant applications and administer grants, with provisions allowing groups of eligible counties within the same circuit to apply jointly.

Authorizes the State Appellate Defender to adopt administrative rules subject to Illinois Supreme Court approval, publish guidelines and application forms online, and establish law school internship programs for bail hearing representation.

Permits the State Appellate Defender to seek contributions and grants to supplement state appropriated funds and request permission to utilize law students with provisional licenses in eligible counties.