MS SB2565

Prohibits courts from setting bail solely for the purpose of detaining defendants and presumes bail amounts are both necessary for public safety and attainable by the defendant.

Allows defendants to rebut the presumption of attainability by filing a motion to reduce or set aside bail within 48 hours due to lack of financial means, including consideration of third-party support systems.

Requires courts to determine if indigent misdemeanor defendants can be released on recognizance based on Mississippi Rules of Criminal Procedure standards, preventing incarceration solely due to inability to afford bail.

Allows defendants to waive in-person court appearances and execute appearance bonds in amounts determined by bond guidelines in the Mississippi Rules of Criminal Procedure.

Requires courts to check the Mississippi Protection Order Registry when setting bail for offenses involving current or former spouses, dating partners, family members, or co-parents, and to consider any existing domestic abuse protection orders.

Effective July 1, 2022.