The bill amends Florida Statutes concerning compensation for victims of wrongful incarceration by removing the definition of "violent felony" and extending the timeframe for filing compensation petitions from 90 days to 2 years after a conviction is vacated. This change allows individuals whose petitions were previously dismissed or who had not filed to seek compensation. Additionally, it establishes that wrongfully incarcerated individuals are ineligible for compensation during any time they are serving a concurrent sentence for another felony, and it revises the provisions regarding offsets of civil judgments against compensation awards.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a financial framework for the payment of approved claims, requiring an appropriation from the General Revenue Fund to the Chief Financial Officer each fiscal year to cover these payments. It specifies that payments for certain petitions are subject to specific appropriation, ensuring budget accountability. The bill also streamlines language related to appropriations and sets the effective date for implementation as July 1, 2025. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance support and compensation for wrongfully convicted individuals in Florida.

Statutes affected:
S 130 Filed: 961.02, 961.03, 961.04, 961.06, 961.07
S 130 er: 961.02, 961.03, 961.04, 961.06, 961.07