This bill seeks to provide financial relief to former Broward County Sheriff's Deputy Maury Hernandez, who sustained severe injuries as a result of a shooting incident linked to the Department of Corrections' failure to enforce probation laws. The bill acknowledges the state's justice system's shortcomings in this case and declares that Deputy Hernandez deserves compensation for the injuries and damages he incurred while on duty. It appropriates $5 million from the General Revenue Fund to the Department of Corrections for this purpose and directs the Chief Financial Officer to issue a warrant for this amount in favor of Deputy Hernandez.
Additionally, the bill includes provisions to waive any lien interests held by the state related to Hernandez's treatment and care, ensuring that the compensation serves as the sole remedy for all claims arising from the incident. It also stipulates that attorney fees related to this claim cannot exceed 25% of the awarded amount. The bill emphasizes the moral obligation of the legislature to provide relief to Deputy Hernandez, who has faced significant economic and physical hardships due to the incident.