The Georgia Senate has unanimously passed a measure that would overhaul the state's misdemeanor bail process.
The proposal passed Monday is one of the final pieces of Republican Gov. Nathan Deal's years-long initiative to overhaul the state's criminal justice system by keeping fewer nonviolent offenders behind bars.
The latest measure would give judges more leeway in forgoing cash bail for low-income offenders held for nonviolent offenses and more opportunities to impose community service rather than fines.
The proposal also enhances penalties for certain crimes involving firearms.
Democratic Sen. Jen Jordan praised the bill, saying portions that allow courts to consider the financial resources of the accused were "desperately needed."
