When Bail Becomes a Penalty for Being Poor

Published on: 01-29-2026

The money bail system punishes poverty instead of protecting public safety. By tying pretrial freedom to the ability to pay, it keeps legally innocent people in jail while allowing wealthier individuals to walk free, regardless of risk. Short periods of incarceration often cost people their jobs, housing, and family stability, creating long-term damage that makes communities less safe. Bail reform offers a better approach by basing release decisions on safety and flight risk rather than income. Despite repeated political attacks and fear-based claims, evidence shows these reforms do not drive crime. Unnecessary pretrial detention fuels instability, coerces guilty pleas, and deepens injustice. A fair system puts safety first and ends punishment based solely on a lack of money. Learn More...