MS HB451

Establishes that bail cannot be set solely for the purpose of detaining a defendant, and creates a presumption that bail amounts are both necessary for public safety and attainable by the defendant

Allows defendants to file a motion to reduce or set aside bail due to lack of financial means, with courts required to rule on such motions within 48 hours

Prohibits incarceration of misdemeanor defendants solely because they cannot afford bail, while requiring judges to ensure release does not jeopardize community safety

Permits defendants to waive appearance before a judge and execute an appearance bond based on bond guidelines in the Mississippi Rules of Criminal Procedure

Requires judges to check the Mississippi Protection Order Registry before setting bail in cases involving domestic relationships, considering any existing protection orders against the accused