As per reports, the State of Texas will implement a sweeping bail reform package aimed at reducing violent crime and limiting early release from jail under certain conditions effective from 01 September. The key provisions include:

• Expanded Judicial Authority: Judges will have new powers to deny bail for a broader range of violent offenses. Currently, denial of bail is limited to capital murder cases where the death penalty is pursued.
• Constitutional Amendment Proposal: A state constitutional amendment will appear on the November 2025 ballot, asking voters to approve expanded bail denial powers based on public safety concerns.
• Elimination of PR Bonds for Violent Charges: Magistrates will no longer be permitted to issue Personal Recognizance (PR) bonds for violent felony charges. Individuals on parole who are charged with a felony will not be eligible for PR bonds.
• Specific Crimes Targeted: PR bonds will be disallowed for charges including- Felon in possession of a weapon, Terroristic threats and Fentanyl-related drug offenses.
• This legislative shift is a direct response to public safety concerns following high-profile cases where individuals released on PR bonds committed violent crimes.