bailable offenses; requirements; release

HB 2490 amends Arizona law to restrict bail eligibility for specific serious offenses, directly affecting defendants charged with crimes like sexual assault, child molestation (under defined age circumstances), and certain immigration-related felonies. It prohibits bail for these offenses if "proof is evident or presumption great," adding immigration status (e.g., illegal entry/remaining in the U.S.) as a key factor for denial. The bill also requires courts to hold expedited hearings within 24 hours for dangerous offense cases, considering factors like gang membership, prior violent offenses, and victim safety. For all bailable offenses, judges must weigh new criteria including immigration status, drug use, and domestic violence risk assessments before setting release terms. These changes aim to prioritize community safety and victim protection in bail determinations.