AUSTIN, Texas– Governor Greg Abbott is scheduled to meet in Austin with bail reform advocates and families of crime victims as part of his push to change the state’s bail laws.
Under current Texas law, only capital murder suspects can be denied bail. Abbott is advocating for constitutional amendments that would allow courts to deny bail for other serious offenses unless certain criteria are met.
He argues that reform is necessary to prevent repeat offenses by individuals released on low or no bond.
The meeting reflects growing concern over recent cases in which suspects released on bail were later involved in violent incidents.
Abbott’s proposed changes are part of a broader criminal justice agenda that includes enhancing public safety and revising the bail system to limit pretrial release in high-risk cases.
Multiple bills have been introduced in the legislature addressing bail reform, but any significant changes will require a constitutional amendment approved by voters.
Abbott’s discussions with affected families and reform advocates are intended to shape the direction of future legislative efforts.
The governor’s office said the proposed reforms aim to balance public safety with due process, while addressing gaps in the current system.