U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R) has cosponsored two bills aimed at suppressing violent crime by ending cashless bail policies. The Ending Cashless Bail in Our Nation's Capital Act and Keeping Violent Criminals Off Our Streets Act seek to prevent the release of violent offenders without bail and restore stricter pre-trial detention standards.
"Cashless bail is a soft-on-crime policy that not only endangers innocent Americans, but also erodes trust in the justice system and drains law enforcement resources," said Cornyn. "I'm proud to work with President Trump and Senator Blackburn to end the use of cashless bail nationwide."
The Ending Cashless Bail Act, led by Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), would require Washington, D.C., to give the highest level of cash bail for violent offenders and ensure individuals charged with serious crimes remain in custody while awaiting trial.
The second Bill, Keeping Violent Criminals Off Our Streets Act, would block federal Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grants from going to states that restrict the use of cash bail. This would be put in place to discourage policies that release potentially dangerous individuals.
Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) is leading companion legislation in the House.
Supporters argue that cashless bail policies have led to repeat offenses and undermined public safety. President Trump (R) signed executive orders targeting these practices. The new legislation would solidify those measures into law.
Cornyn's support signals continued Republican actions to reverse what is seen as lenient criminal justice reforms and strengthens tougher crime prevention strategies.
