Bill description: SB 1093 would codify the pretrial supervision programs that counties operate.

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Does it create, expand, or enlarge any agency, board, program, function, or activity of government? Conversely, does it eliminate or curtail the size or scope of government?

Currently, many counties operate pretrial supervision programs for criminal defendants who are released from county jail prior to their trial and hearings. These are offered to defendants instead of release on bail or release on their own recognizance. For a defendant who cannot afford to post bail or pay for a bond, these pretrial supervision programs give judges an option to release them from prison, with a greater guarantee that they will return to court. These supervision programs can include a variety of different requirements, including that a defendant wears an electronic monitor, or takes drug and alcohol tests.

SB 1093 would would give counties the express authority to establish these programs and to employ additional staff, enter into contracts with outside groups, and provide any additional funding or take any other steps necessary to accomplish these programs.

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Does it directly or indirectly create or increase any taxes, fees, or other assessments? Conversely, does it eliminate or reduce any taxes, fees, or other assessments?

SB 1093 would set a cap of $75 per month for the supervision fee defendants on release must pay. Currently, there is no cap on the fee that the counties operating these supervision programs can charge defendants. By establishing a $75 cap, SB 1093 would protect defendants from excessively large fees that they would not be able to pay in order to see a release from jail while they await their trial.

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