LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Michigan Democrats in the House are trying to get as many bills passed as they can before turning over power to Republicans on New Year’s Day.

While Democrats have a slew of bills they are considering, a package regarding how Michigan judges and magistrates approach the issue of bail is at the forefront of discussions. Republicans argue that House Bills 4655, 4656 and 4658-4661 would water down bail requirements and create a dangerous ripple effect across the criminal justice system and into communities.

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Representative Brian BeGole (R-Antrim Township) serves on the House Criminal Justice Committee and is the former Shiawassee County Sheriff. He spoke on The Steve Gruber Show on Thursday. He called the legislation “radical” and said it takes away discretion from judges.

“We live in a right to bail state,” Rep. BeGole said on the show. “If a person goes out and commits a crime and is taken to jail, a judge or magistrate must offer them a right to post bail.” He continued, “[They must consider] a number of things such as the nature of crime and if they are they a danger to society. This legislation that the progressives are suggesting would eliminate that and would let these people out of jail without posting any money whatsoever.”

Gruber asked BeGole if the legislation could make Michigan like New York with its “revolving door” criminal justice system. BeGole replied, “It may be worse.”

BeGole said roughly 50% of people released are back in jail before their trial. “People want to feel safe and secure,” he said. “This does just the opposite.”