CHICAGO – Thursday marks two years since the Pretrial Fairness Act was implemented, leading to a fairer and more just criminal legal system – and in turn, safer communities. State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) released the following statement to highlight the historic legislation: 

“The results speak for themselves: our communities are safer, our justice system is more equitable, and we have proven that safety is achieved through fairness rather than the size of someone's bank account.

“Contrary to the fear-mongering predictions of critics, both violent and property crimes have decreased since we ended cash bail, and the two-year re-arrest rate for individuals released pretrial has improved. Most importantly, it has been transformative in addressing the disproportionate impact of the cash bail system on communities of color and low-income families. For too long, our two-tiered justice system allowed wealth to determine freedom. Today, Illinois operates under the principle that liberty should not depend on one's ability to pay.

“The Pretrial Fairness Act represents what is possible when we choose courage over fear, evidence over rhetoric and justice over the status quo. After two years of implementation, one thing is clear: when we assess risk rather than riches, everyone benefits – survivors, families, defendants, and most importantly, our communities.

“The success of the past two years is the foundation for continued progress toward a more just Illinois.”