Connecticut’s legislative bodies are hard at work to make the justice system fairer and more impartial – the reforms we’ve seen in the past (and in Part 1 of this guide) are proof of that. Now, it’s time to continue down the path of analysis, break down the most recent changes, and see how they could affect a bail bond company in Bridgeport, CT – or their principal.
The 2023 – 2025 Changes
After a brief “hiatus” (from 2019 to 2022), the reforms of Connecticut’s criminal justice and bail bond system continued in 2023 and keep going strong to date.
What is the Clean Slate Law in Connecticut?
Enacted as Public Act No. 21-32 in 2021, Connecticut’s Clean Slate Initiative officially took effect on January 1, 2023. This legislation is designed to automatically clear arrests and certain criminal convictions from a person’s record after a specific period, provided that they meet the eligibility criteria.
The primary purpose of this act was to address the “collateral consequences” created by the criminal conviction history that acted as barriers to employment, housing, education, child custody, and public benefits (among other things) – even long after a person has completed their sentence.
By clearing the specific criminal convictions – primarily misdemeanors and low-level felonies – the Clean Slate Law removed the aforementioned barriers, thereby effectively enabling individuals with a non-violent criminal history to reintegrate and become productive members of society.
What is Senate Bill 1504?
Introduced by the Connecticut State Legislature on March 13, 2025, Senate Bill 1504 aims to simultaneously tighten and establish a more equitable framework for forming bail conditions, particularly for individuals charged with felonies.
The key provision of SB 1504 requires the courts to consider a broad range of factors when determining the duration of pretrial detention, the conditions for release from custody, and the bail amount, including:
- Nature of the offense;
- Criminal history;
- Family and community ties;
- Financial resources.
In short, the SB 1504 aims to alter the conditions of the pre-trial release, so it’s no longer based solely on the individual’s ability to post bail, which was a major point of contention in the current judicial system, especially for low-income individuals.
Needless to say, these changes are considered highly controversial by many, especially in cases involving domestic violence, as there’s a constant need to balance the rights of the defendant and the safety of the victim and the community.
What is Substitute Bill No. 1367?
Proposed in January 2025, Substitute Bill No. 1367 specifically targets bail bond companies, effectively limiting their apprehending power. Per the proposed bill, bail bondsmen or their agents are prohibited from apprehending individuals on the premises, grounds, or campuses of:
- Healthcare facilities;
- Public or private schools;
- Institutions of higher education;
- Houses of worship.
The rationale behind this prohibition errs on the public safety side, as the apprehension of individuals in places that are generally considered safe could cause disruption and panic, or pose risks to vulnerable populations (patients, students, congregants), especially if the apprehendee is non-compliant.
In addition, Substitute Bill No. 1367 also proposes mandatory vacation of bond forfeiture orders and the release of bondsman/agent from liability by the court, provided that satisfactory proof is presented to the court and the state’s attorney that the principal is:
- Detained/incarcerated in another state, territory, or country;
- Detained by the federal agency (including ICE);
- Receiving inpatient care in a healthcare facility or similar institution.
The aim here is to reduce the financial risks for bondsmen companies in specific cases where the principal fails to appear in court – not due to absconding, but because they are being held in another jurisdiction or being incapacitated in a medical facility – recognizing that holding bondsmen fully liable for the principal’s non-appearance is unwarranted.
What’s the preferred bail bond company near me in Bridgeport, CT & the area?
Need fast, affordable bail in the City of Bridgeport or the vicinity? BailCo is your trusted local bail bondsman, available 24/7/365 to help you navigate the process with ease and confidence. Our experienced agents are always just a call away, ready to provide assistance when you need it most – so, don’t wait. Reach out to us today and get the reliable support right away!