The bill amends K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 21-6615 and K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 21-6804 to clarify the computation of sentences and parole eligibility for defendants in criminal cases. It mandates that judges specify a date for sentence computation, allowing credit for time served prior to sentencing, while excluding certain periods of incarceration from this calculation. The bill also addresses consecutive sentences, stating that custody days for multiple cases will only be credited once, and grants courts discretion in allocating these days. Additionally, it introduces guidelines for sentencing in nondrug crimes, emphasizing presumptive imprisonment for offenses involving firearms or gang activities, and allows for nonprison sentences under specific conditions.

Moreover, the bill modifies conditions of release for defendants, particularly for felonies, by enabling magistrates to impose various conditions to ensure public safety and court appearance. It establishes criteria for cash bond deposits and outlines circumstances for release on recognizance, taking into account prior criminal history and the nature of the charges. Stricter bond requirements are introduced for defendants charged with sexual offenses, including a minimum bond of $750,000 for those with prior convictions of sexually violent crimes. The bill also allows for the review and amendment of release conditions by magistrates and repeals certain existing statutes, indicating a comprehensive update to the legal framework governing release conditions.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 21-6615, 21-6804, 21-6818, 21-6608, 22-2802