Language in the SAFE-T-Act (HB3653) will be clarified under a measure being sponsored by State Senator Patrick Joyce. SB 4228 would update provisions in the SAFE-T-Act to give law enforcement adequate resources to protect their communities.

Joyce’s measure intends to amend a pre-trial release reform to only apply to those individuals arrested on or after January 1, 2023.

The legislation would also permit a judge to deny pretrial release for any alleged crime if the person arrested poses a threat to the safety of any person or the community. The measure clarifies that officers have the authority to detain trespassers if the person is a threat to themselves, a person, or the community, or if the officer feels it necessary to discontinue the criminal behavior.

Joyce said, “With all the confusion surrounding the SAFE-T Act, it’s important that we make things as clear as possible”. Senate Bill 4228 can be heard as soon as the fall Veto Session.

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