AN ACT relating to bench warrants.

SB 236 limits the duration of bench warrants for misdemeanor or violation cases where a person failed to appear in court after proper notice. The bill requires such warrants to expire one year after issuance unless the court renews them following proof that law enforcement attempted service. This directly affects individuals charged with minor offenses who miss court dates, changing how long authorities can seek their arrest for non-appearance. The key provision replaces indefinite warrant validity with a fixed one-year term, aiming to reduce outdated or unnecessary active warrants.