The bill amends Section 15-23-12 of the Code of Alabama 1975, which governs the Alabama Crime Victims Compensation Commission, specifically regarding the filing of claims. One significant change is the extension of the time limit for filing claims from one year to two years after the injury or death that forms the basis of the claim, unless the commission finds good cause for a delayed filing. Other provisions remain unchanged, including the stipulations that compensation will not be awarded to offenders or accomplices, and that claims must be reported to law enforcement within 72 hours unless good cause is shown.

Additionally, the bill allows the commission to reconsider decisions regarding awards, with the stipulation that previously paid amounts do not need to be refunded unless fraud is involved. The language regarding the commission's authority to deny or reduce compensation based on the claimant's cooperation with law enforcement has also been retained. This act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 15-23-12
Engrossed: 15-23-12
Enrolled: 15-23-12