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IN HB1194

Bill

Status

Introduced

1/5/2026

Primary Sponsor

Chris Jeter

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Expands pretrial detention beyond murder cases, allowing courts to deny bail for any offense if the state proves the evidence is strong and demonstrates by clear and convincing evidence that the arrestee poses a substantial safety risk that no release conditions can mitigate

  • Requires bail hearings to be held within 48 hours of the state's motion, with continuances limited to 5 days if requested by the arrestee or 3 days if requested by the state

  • Guarantees arrestees full constitutional rights at bail hearings, including counsel (appointed if indigent), the right to testify, present evidence, and cross-examine witnesses

  • Mandates courts consider specific factors when denying bail, including offense nature, evidence weight, arrestee's criminal history and community ties, danger posed by release, and availability of less restrictive alternatives

  • Effective January 1, 2027, and makes orders granting or denying bail final appealable orders while prohibiting use of hearing evidence at trial except for impeachment or perjury prosecution

Legislative Description

Bail matters.

Last Action

First reading: referred to Committee on Courts and Criminal Code

1/5/2026

Committee Referrals

Courts and Criminal Code1/5/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available