Madison, WI – Representative Rick Gundrum (R-Slinger) voted for Assembly Joint Resolution 107 (AJR 107) to amend the Wisconsin State Constitution. The resolution will make overdue reforms to  Wisconsin’s bail system. After voting for passage, he released the following statement: 

“It is rare for us as state legislators to amend the State Constitution. However, Wisconsin is in very  difficult times. We have an obligation to ensure our communities are safe and one step in doing that is  bail reform. Around 20% of the homicides committed in Milwaukee in 2021 were allegedly committed by  individuals who were out on bail or signature bonds for a different crime. This is unacceptable. 

“Assembly Joint Resolution 107 will give judges the discretion to consider relevant factors when setting  bail. These include previous convictions for violent crimes, the seriousness of a charged offense, and  protecting community members from serious harm. Currently, judges can only use bail as a means to  ensure appearance in court and not the totality of the circumstances.  

“This resolution will now be sent to the Senate for their consideration. I hope they vote in favor of AJR  107.” 

An amendment to the Wisconsin Constitution requires a joint resolution to be adopted by the  State Legislature in two consecutive sessions. It will then be voted on by the people of  Wisconsin in a statewide referendum. 

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