California’s Proposed SB 562 Threatens Bail Agents and Public Safety
The bail industry is pushing back against SB 562 bail legislation, a proposed California bill that could drastically change how bail operates in our communities.
At SCV Bail Bonds, we work around the clock, 365 days a year to help people regain their freedom while they await trial, a right protected by the U.S. Constitution. But a new California bill, SB 562, threatens to dismantle that right by making it harder for bail agents to operate and for families to get their loved ones out of jail.
What Is SB 562?
SB 562 is a proposed law that would require bail agents to refund the full bail premium (minus a 2% administrative fee) if the district attorney decides not to file charges within 21 days or if the charges are dismissed within 21 days of arraignment.
On paper, this may sound like consumer protection. In reality, it could cripple the bail industry, discourage agents from writing bonds, and hurt the very people it claims to help.
Why This Bill Hurts Everyone
- It Undermines the Bail System Itself
Bail is one of the oldest rights in our legal system. It ensures that people aren’t held in jail simply because they can’t afford to pay. But SB 562 would force bail agents to take on financial risk without recourse, essentially turning them into insurance companies without protection. If a case isn’t filed in time, even if the person was rightly arrested, the bail agent loses their income. That’s not justice. That’s unfair business practice.
- It Will Make Bail Harder to Get
When the risk of refund increases, the incentive to write bail decreases. Bail agents may start denying bonds altogether, especially in cases with vague or complex charges. That means more people stuck behind bars, waiting longer, and suffering consequences like job loss, family disruption, and increased stress.
- It’s a Blow to Small Businesses
Most bail agencies are family-run or independently owned. SB 562 could devastate these small businesses by introducing unpredictable refunds, paperwork disputes, and revenue loss. This isn’t just an attack on bail—it’s an attack on California’s small business community.
- It Will Drive Up Costs for Everyone
To offset the potential refund requirement, bail agents may be forced to increase upfront costs or eliminate payment plans, making bail less accessible to low-income families. The bill does not account for the time, effort, and resources already spent once a bond is written.
What’s Really at Stake
The supporters of SB 562 may believe they’re helping defendants but this bill would do the opposite. It punishes the very system that gives people a way out of jail and a chance to defend themselves while free.
“Bail is a right. Bail agents are not the enemy. We’re part of the solution, working around the clock to help people get back to their families, jobs, and communities.”
SCV Bail Bonds strongly opposes SB 562 because it is bad for business, bad for defendants, and bad for public trust in the justice system. We call on lawmakers to reject this bill and instead work with the bail industry to create solutions that preserve due process without punishing those who provide a legal, constitutionally protected service.
What You Can Do
If you care about access to bail, small business rights, and preserving due process, contact your local representative and voice your concerns about SB 562.
This legislation is scheduled to be heard July 15th, at 9:00 AM at the California State Capitol, Assembly Public Safety Committee. You can also help spread the word by sharing this blog or speaking out on social media.
Need Help Now?
If your loved one has been arrested, call SCV Bail Bonds 24/7 at (661) 299-BAIL (2245). Learn more about how bail works. We’ll guide you through every step, because your freedom shouldn’t be delayed by bad legislation.
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