Iowa lawmakers have approved legislation that would tighten bail requirements and limit when defendants can be released without posting bond, according to a legislative update newsletter from Iowa House Republicans.
The bill, Senate File 2399, would require magistrates to generally follow the state’s uniform bond schedule. If a judge sets bail lower than the recommended amount, a written justification would be required. The measure also directs the judicial council to update the bond schedule to account for inflation, which has not been adjusted since 2017.
The legislation further restricts release on a defendant’s own recognizance. Under the proposal, that option would largely be limited to individuals charged with nonviolent, nondrug misdemeanors. Those facing felony, drug-related or violent charges would likely be required to post bail or meet stricter release conditions.
Additional provisions require verification of pretrial evaluation reports and place limits on release for certain serious offenses, including forcible felonies and weapons-related crimes.
The measure has passed both the Iowa House and Senate and now awaits further action.
