IL SB3354

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

Establishes the State Appellate Defender as program administrator under the State Appellate Defender Commission and requires consultation with the Illinois Supreme Court Pretrial Commission on Pretrial Practices.

Allows counties without full-time public defenders to apply for grants beginning July 1, 2020, with applications made by circuit court chief judges who administer the grants.

Authorizes the State Appellate Defender to adopt rules (subject to Supreme Court approval), publish guidelines and application forms, and work with law schools to establish internship programs for law student representation at bail hearings.

Requires the State Appellate Defender to request grant program funds within its annual appropriation and permits seeking contributions and grants to supplement state funding.