Senate Democrats: A Step Toward Safer Communities—Bail Reform that Balances Safety and Rights

AUSTIN, TX—Texas Senate Democrats released the following statement after the unanimous passage of Senate Joint Resolution 5 (SJR 5):

“We faced two hard truths this session. One: Families have lost loved ones to violent crimes committed by people who never should have been released. Two: Our justice system holds too many people behind bars who don’t belong there—people not yet convicted and who aren’t dangerous but can’t afford bail.

“We supported SJR 5 because it acknowledges both realities. It gives judges the power to deny bail in violent cases while honoring the fundamental right to due process. The state has to prove the person is a risk to the public. The accused has the right to a lawyer. When a court sets bail in a violent case, it has to say why.

“The passage of this bill illustrates the benefits of when people speak up, namely, victims’ families, legal advocates and judges. They helped develop this bill so it reflects who we are and what we value: public safety and fairness in the judicial system.”