Connecticut House Bill HB05116

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/13
• Refer: 1/9/13

Caption

An Act Concerning The Oversight And Regulation Of Surety Bail Bond Agents And Professional Bondsmen.

Impact

The bill's impact on state laws includes a provision that mandates any bond set by a court for family violence offenses must be paid in full, thereby eliminating the acceptance of promissory notes as a means of assurance. This stipulation is designed to ensure that offenders are financially accountable at the time of their release, which could lead to a reduction in the number of repeat offenses and enhance victim protection.

Summary

House Bill 05116 aims to enhance the oversight and regulation of surety bail bond agents and professional bondsmen within the state. The proposed legislation seeks to amend existing statutes governing these entities, specifically targeting increased regulatory authority by the state's Insurance Department and the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection. This change is intended to reinforce standards for the bail bond process, particularly concerning individuals charged with family violence offenses.

Contention

There may be notable points of contention surrounding HB 05116, particularly regarding its implications for individuals who depend on bail bonds for release after arrests. Advocates for the bill argue that the changes are necessary to protect victims of domestic violence and ensure that those accused of such offenses are not released under lenient conditions. Conversely, opponents may express concerns over the increased financial burdens placed on individuals who may not have immediate access to the required bail amounts, potentially exacerbating issues within the judicial system.