National Police Association Backs Cashless Bail Reporting Act

The proposed legislation, H.R. 5625, mandates that the Attorney General publish a comprehensive list of state and local jurisdictions that permit individuals charged with violent crimes to walk free without cash bail. Introduced by Rep. Mark Harris of North Carolina, the bill targets "covered" offenses—including murder, rape, assault, and carjacking—that the NPA argues pose a direct threat to public safety.

While the bill does not alter state law or restrict federal funding, it serves as a transparency mechanism. Paula Fitzsimmons, the NPA’s legislative director, stated that the public deserves to identify which governments prioritize the release of violent reoffenders over the welfare of law-abiding citizens. The bill has already cleared the House and currently awaits deliberation by the Senate Judiciary Committee. Supporters view the measure as a necessary step to hold local officials accountable and to codify the intent behind executive efforts to curb cashless release programs.