Rep. Michalski Votes to Amend State Constitution on Bail

For Immediate Release                                                                                    Contact: Rep. Thomas A. Michalski

January 19, 2023                                                                                                                                  (608) 237-9113

Rep. Michalski Votes to Amend State Constitution on Bail

Madison, WI – State Representative Tom Michalski (R- District 13) supported the reform of bail in the state by supporting legislation to allow the courts to look at factors such as the defendant’s previous conviction history when setting bail. 

“A little over 12 months ago, Waukesha was met with tragedy as Darrell Brooks viciously drove into the Waukesha Christmas parade killing 6 and injuring 61.  This was due in large part to a bail set at $1,000 for domestic violence because the judge was not allowed to look at prior history,” said Rep. Michalski.  While we cannot insure tragedy never happens again, this amendment will help minimize the chances of a tragedy like this occurring in the future”.  

48 states- not including Wisconsin- already allow courts to consider “dangerousness” when deciding bail and other pretrial conditions, Wisconsin legislature is working to correct this.

Rep. Michalski was both a co-sponsor and co-author on this bill, which has now passed both the Assembly and Senate.  He now looks to the voters in the spring election for a final decision on the constitutional amendment.

The Representative requests for voters to say yes to bail reform when it hits the ballot on April 4^th.

###

The 13^th Assembly District includes Brookfield, Elm Grove, and portions of The Town of Brookfield and Wauwatosa.