CHICAGO – State Rep. Justin Slaughter, D-Chicago, recently spoke at a rally organized by the Coalition to End Money Bail to urge fellow lawmakers to support current efforts to abolish monetary bail.
“If Illinois is truly going to become a state where freedom, justice, and equality reign supreme, then it is critical that we take a long look at our money bail system which disproportionately impacts poor people and people of color,” said Slaughter. “We must move forward and ensure that everyone is equal within our justice system.”
In addition to taking part in the June 17 rally outside the Thompson Center in Chicago, Slaughter has also introduced legislation to eliminate monetary bail. Slaughter’s House Bill 3347 aims implement alternatives to the cash bail system for low-risk, low-income individuals facing court proceedings.
“Now is the time to come together and stand against our archaic money bail system that has completely upended the lives of thousands throughout our state because of their inability to pay,” said Slaughter. “We cannot continue to extort our most vulnerable citizens, and I urge my fellow lawmakers and citizens in joining me in the fight to abolish this system.”
