Gerald Kowalczyk's $7 cheeseburger purchase with a lost credit card led to a $75,000 bail, sparking debate over excessive bail.

Kowalczyk's inability to pay his high bail highlighted disparities in California's bail system.

The case divided public opinion on the fairness and justification of high bail amounts for minor offenses.

Conflicting laws and court decisions have complicated bail-setting priorities in California.

The case raises issues about the constitutionality of excessive bail under the Eighth Amendment.

The California Supreme Court's decision could lead to significant bail reform in the state.