Part 9/10:
Crucially, reformers emphasize that bail should be a right rather than a punishment for poverty. Judges and prosecutors must be reminded to consider a defendant's financial situation during bail decisions, aligning the system with its original intent rather than perpetuating economic and racial disparities.
The Path Forward
With nearly 200 pending bills across the country, policymakers, criminal justice officials, and community advocates are actively seeking ways to improve the system. The overarching goal is to strike a balance: ensuring public safety while upholding individual rights and fostering fairness.