This bill introduces a new provision allowing the commissioner of corrections to release individuals from state prison to participate in post-secondary education programs in their respective communities. Additionally, it amends the existing bail laws under RSA 597:2, III(c) to specify that individuals charged with a "qualifying offense" will not be brought before a bail commissioner and will be detained pending arraignment. The bill defines "qualifying offenses" to include serious crimes such as homicide, various degrees of assault, domestic violence, sexual assault, kidnapping, trafficking in persons, robbery, and offenses related to child exploitation, among others.

The bill also stipulates that if a person is arrested for violating bail conditions related to these qualifying offenses, they will be held until they can appear before the court. The court must determine whether there is probable cause to detain the individual pending trial, considering all relevant factors. If the court does not find probable cause, the individual will be released under specified conditions. The act is set to take effect 180 days after its passage, with an effective date of January 11, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 651:25
As Amended by the Senate: 597:2
Version adopted by both bodies: 597:2
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 597:2