The proposed bill would update current statutes by introducing a new legal framework for individuals wrongfully convicted of felonies to file claims against the state for compensation, effective January 1, 2026. It specifies eligibility criteria for claimants, including the requirement that they did not commit the crime or contribute to their conviction, and mandates that claims be filed within two years in the county of conviction. The bill also establishes the Erroneous Convictions Fund to finance successful claims, detailing compensation amounts based on years of wrongful incarceration and other factors, while ensuring expungement of related records.

Additionally, the bill enhances the rights of victims in erroneous conviction cases by requiring notification from the Attorney General and allowing for reimbursement for mental health treatment. It includes provisions for the Attorney General to request findings of misconduct by city or county employees and mandates reimbursement timelines from the Erroneous Convictions Fund. The bill also repeals the existing statute enabling erroneous conviction claims by July 1, 2027, and makes various technical and conforming changes to existing law, thereby providing a structured process for addressing wrongful convictions and ensuring accountability for judicial errors.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-862
Senate Engrossed Version: 8-862
Chaptered Version: 41-710.03, 13-3821, 13-610, 13-4033, 13-4401, 41-2407