86R15595 ADM-D
By: Reynolds H.J.R. No. 101
A JOINT RESOLUTION
proposing a constitutional amendment creating a presumption that
nonviolent criminal defendants will be released on personal bond
unless good cause is shown otherwise.
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Section 11, Article I, Texas Constitution, is
amended to read as follows:
Sec. 11. (a) All prisoners shall be bailable by sufficient
sureties, unless for capital offenses, when the proof is evident;
but this provision shall not be so construed as to prevent bail
after indictment found upon examination of the evidence, in such
manner as may be prescribed by law.
(b) A person charged with only one or more nonviolent
offenses shall be released on personal bond pending trial unless a
judge or magistrate determines by clear and convincing evidence
that release on personal bond would be insufficient to reasonably
ensure:
(1) the person's appearance in court as required; and
(2) the safety of the community and the victim of the
alleged offense.
SECTION 2. This proposed constitutional amendment shall be
submitted to the voters at an election to be held November 5, 2019.
The ballot shall be printed to permit voting for or against the
proposition: "The constitutional amendment creating a presumption
that nonviolent criminal defendants will be released on personal
bond unless good cause is shown otherwise."