HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Senate approved legislation cosponsored by Sen. Tracy Pennycuick (R-24) to prohibit courts from releasing criminal defendants on their own recognizance or on unsecured bail when the defendant is a person who poses a threat to public safety.
Senate Bill 490 targets repeat violent felons, high-level fentanyl traffickers, and individuals who endanger law enforcement, ensuring that these high-risk offenders remain in custody.
“Tragically, there are to many stories of innocent people getting hurt or killed by repeat offenders or individuals involved in serious criminal activity making bail and committing more crimes. This cycle has to stop,” said Senator Pennycuick. “Ensuring these bad actors stay behind bars and don’t jump bail and don’t pose a further threat to society is imperative to protecting the public.”
The measure passed the Senate and now goes to the state House of Representatives.
Senate Bill 490 is part of a series of bills aimed at strengthening Pennsylvania’s criminal justice system and addressing critical public safety concerns.
CONTACT: Lidia Di Fiore (215) 541-2388