Senate considers bail amendment in wake of Waukesha parade
February 22, 2022 12:00PM CST
Credit: State of WI
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The state Senate is poised to pass a constitutional amendment to make it harder for criminal defendants to get out of jail on bail.
Constitutional amendments must pass consecutive legislative sessions and a statewide referendum.
The soonest that could happen is next year. The Assembly passed the proposal last week.
Senate approval Tuesday would mark the first time the amendment has passed a legislative session.
The amendment would require court officials to consider a defendant’s risk to public safety when setting bail.
Right now bail is set only as a means to ensure the person returns to court.
