Illinois Supreme Court Paves the Way for Historic End to Cash Bail

The Illinois Supreme Court has ruled that a provision in the state's SAFE-T Act, which aims to end cash bail, does not violate the state's constitution. This decision paves the way for Illinois to become the first state in the US to eradicate cash bail. Under the new law, judges will not require suspects charged with crimes to post bail while awaiting trial, except for those deemed a threat to the public or likely to flee. The ruling is set to take effect on September 18, 2023. Critics argue that the law should have been put to a vote and express concerns about public safety.