HAMILTON COUNTY, Tenn. — The Tennessee Senate took up a bill Monday that would limit nonprofit bail funds to just three bonds per year. Lawmakers later sent the legislation back to committee for changes.
In Hamilton County, organizers say that proposal could mean many of the people who would normally walk out of Hamilton County jail while awaiting trial would have to stay. Kate Cofelt manages the Hamilton County Community Bail Fund through the nonprofit CALEB.
“There is no reason for someone who is not a threat to public safety to spend two weeks in jail waiting for their first trial appearance or court appearance.” Said Cofelt…