Bonta rejected criticisms that the bill is watered down. He emphasized that they delivered on their promise that they will reform the money bail system, as the legislation will abolish it.
“I’d say that’s a significant, fundamental reform,” Bonta said.
In addition, Bonta said they strengthened the bill in response to those who raised concerns regarding public safety.
“We clarified and strengthened SB 10 to make sure that non-violent, low-risk defendants are not unnecessarily locked in jail and those who are truly a safety risk to others or a clear flight risk are held in custody,” Bonta said.
Replacing the Money Bail System with a Risk-based System
Under the California Money Reform Bail Act, the current money bail system will be replaced with an individualized, risk-based system.
The pretrial release of defendants will be based on several factors, such as flight and public safety risks.
The legislation will also end all monetary conditions for pretrial release, including charges for ankle monitors.
