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. It allows individuals whose petitions were previously dismissed or who had not filed petitions to seek compensation. Additionally, it establishes that wrongfully incarcerated individuals cannot receive compensation while serving a concurrent sentence for another felony conviction. The bill also revises how civil judgments affect compensation awards and sets new requirements for the Chief Financial Officer regarding annuity purchases for claimants.

Moreover, the bill clarifies eligibility criteria for compensation, stating that the Chief Financial Officer cannot issue warrants for annuity purchases if the claimant is currently incarcerated for a felony unrelated to their wrongful conviction. It outlines the process for reimbursement to the state if a claimant receives a civil judgment or settlement related to their wrongful incarceration. The bill appropriates funds from the General Revenue Fund for approved payments and specifies that payments for certain petitions are subject to specific appropriation. It is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, creating a structured approach to financial obligations related to wrongful incarceration compensation.

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