What bail reform in Illinois can teach us

A fairer pretrial justice system is possible →

Dear Pamela, The Illinois Pretrial Fairness Act went into effect in September of 2023, ending the use of money bail across the state. One year later, the impressive results are in: recent data shows it both reduced the number of people in jail pending trial and made the legal system more fair and just—at no cost to safety. Jail populations have decreased by 14 percent in urban counties and 25 percent in rural counties. Crime rates have not increased since the Pretrial Fairness Act went into effect—in fact, statewide violent and property rates have dropped by 12 percent. Illinois families saved an estimated $46 million in bail costs in the first four months after eliminating money bail. The Pretrial Fairness Act is a crucial first step toward ending mass incarceration in Illinois and, eventually, across the country. Vera has been advocating for decades to end money bail and is proud to have supported the many advocates, organizers, and researchers who played a role in this victory. Pamela, we rely on the generosity of people like you to fuel our research projects and advocacy efforts nationwide. In light of this historic milestone in Illinois—and the critical work that still lies ahead—can we count on you to make a tax-deductible gift to Vera today? On any given day, almost half a million people are stuck behind bars while they wait for their day in court. Most of them are there simply because they cannot afford to pay bail. But together with the help of supporters like you, we can replicate the success in Illinois and end money bail nationwide—and build safer communities where everyone can thrive. Onward,  Vera Institute of Justice  © 2024 Vera Institute of Justice. All Rights Reserved.   Vera Institute of Justice 34 35th Street | Suite 4-2A | Brooklyn, NY 11232 (212) 334-1300   Privacy Statement | unsubscribe