Congresswoman Ramirez Celebrates IL Major Criminal Justice Win, End of Cash Bail

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), the Vice Ranking Member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, took to the House Floor to uplift Illinois’ implementation of the historic Pretrial Fairness Act, becoming the first state to fully abolish cash bail. 

“Yesterday, Illinois made history as the first state in the nation to eliminate cash bail, a standard used to punish poverty instead of upholding justice. A standard that kept those without means, especially Black and Brown Illinoisans,  in jail for months as they awaited trial while allowing those who could afford bail to avoid prison - independently of the crime they were accused of,” said Congresswoman Ramirez on the House Floor. “Some may say we're reforming our criminal justice system. But we are doing more than that. We are creating a justice system that protects victims and ensures equal due process for everyone, independently of their means.”

During her remarks, the Congresswoman urged Congress to follow Illinois's lead to work for greater justice and safety.

For the full video, here.