The bill amends existing laws concerning criminal procedure, particularly focusing on search and seizure protocols and the management of appearance bonds. It stipulates that search warrants must be issued based on a law enforcement officer's sworn statement demonstrating probable cause. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions that prohibit compensated sureties from making loans for certain portions of the minimum appearance bond premium and clarifies conditions under which bond forfeiture can be set aside, especially if a surety can prove the defendant's deportation or incarceration.

Moreover, the bill mandates that warrants for failure to appear be entered into the national crime information center's index within 14 days of issuance and allows courts to provide copies of these warrants to compensated sureties upon request. It establishes a definition for "appearance bond premium" and requires compensated sureties to submit applications to the chief judge of their judicial district, including identification and proof of residency. The bill also enforces a minimum appearance bond premium of 10%, mandates physical presence during bond posting, and requires a premium financing agreement for unpaid amounts. Local judicial districts may create additional rules regarding bonding, and compensated sureties must complete continuing education requirements annually. The act will take effect upon publication and repeals certain existing statutes related to compensated sureties.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 22-2807
As Amended by Senate Committee: 22-2807
As Amended by House Committee: 22-2502, 22-4615, 22-2807, 22-2809b