On March 3, MACo Executive Director Michael Sanderson, testified to the House Judiciary Committee to support with amendments HB 494 Criminal Procedure- Pretrial Release-Charge by Summons. This bill proposes reforms to Maryland’s pretrial system that are intended to reduce the burdens on the pretrial systems and increase efficiency. However, the broad nature of the reforms gives counties some concern.

The written testimony explains MACo’s concerns and proposed amendments:

These recently implemented measures impose significant challenges and costs on county governments – local jails are seeing substantial backups in pretrial processing, and are absorbing substantial new costs for staff overtime driven by this new system. Furthermore, the temporary nature of recent changes leaves the future of Maryland’s pretrial system to be determined. Counties are concerned with these uncertain and looming developments, and support the efficient use of already limited resources to maximize the State’s administration of justice and public safety.

For more on MACo’s 2015 legislation, visit the Legislative Database.