State Representative Charlie Meier (R-Okawville) issued the following statement as the State of Illinois implements no cash bail today:
“I voted against the elimination of cash bail before it became law. I believe there will be many unintended consequences of this law. Besides the fact that criminals will be put back on the street much faster, individuals faced with drug addiction may not be able to receive the treatment they need in some jurisdictions as they will be put back on the street. Another unintended consequence will affect individuals arrested that have mental health issues. I am talking about people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, this vulnerable population will be put back on the street instead of being transferred to a state facility for mental health treatment. The unintended consequences of no-cash bail leave some of our local law enforcement and prosecutors with no choice and limited options. With that said, I know our courts, prosecutors, and law enforcement are doing everything they can under the law to keep our communities safe. I will do everything I can to support them and welcome their feedback and suggested improvements to help them enforce the law and keep our communities safe.”