FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
STATEHOUSE (Feb. 16, 2026) — A resolution authored by State Sen. Eric Koch (R-Bedford) seeking to amend the Indiana Constitution to let judges deny bail to those deemed a substantial threat to public safety passed out of the House of Representatives today.
Senate Joint Resolution 1 would allow Hoosiers to vote on an amendment to Indiana's Constitution to help prevent repeat offenders of violent crimes from returning to the street. SJR 1 would allow judges to deny bail to alleged offenders that prosecutors have shown pose a substantial threat to a person or the community. The Indiana Constitution currently stipulates bail may only be withheld only for charges of murder and treason.
"SJR 1 addresses an important safety issue in our communities," Koch said. "This resolution moving forward is a great step toward ensuring our communities are protected from those who pose a threat. I look forward to continuing to work with my fellow legislators on this resolution and guiding it through the rest of the legislative process."
To change the Indiana Constitution, a joint resolution must be approved by two separately elected General Assemblies. This resolution, also authored by Koch, previously passed in 2023. The question will now go on the ballot in November this year, where a majority of Hoosiers must vote in favor of the amendment for it to become part of the Indiana Constitution.
Koch is the chairman of the Senate Committee on Utilities, ranking member of the Senate committees on Commerce and Technology and Judiciary, and a member of the Senate Committee on Corrections and Criminal Law. He represents Senate District 44, which includes Brown, Jackson, Lawrence and Orange counties, and a portion of Monroe County.
-30-
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
Contact: Elijah Roberson, Press Secretary
Elijah.Roberson@iga.in.gov
317-232-9498
Karlee Monday, Press Secretary Intern
Karlee.Monday@iga.in.gov
