Bail; prohibit unsecured judicial release.

HB 983 prohibits judges from granting unsecured judicial release (such as release on own recognizance or without requiring money/property security) to individuals charged with offenses punishable by more than one year in prison. It defines "bail restricted offense" as any crime with a potential sentence exceeding one year and requires that such defendants be released only through secured bonds (monetary, property, or surety). The bill does not affect release options for less serious offenses (under one year), preserving judicial discretion for those cases. This change aligns with amendments to Mississippi’s bail laws, effective July 1, 2026.