This bill aims to enhance public safety by providing compensation to individuals who have been exonerated after wrongful convictions. It amends Minnesota Statutes to establish a process for awarding preliminary monetary damages to exonerated individuals, specifically when a prosecutor indicates their support for the petition prior to its filing. The bill introduces a new subdivision that allows for a prompt payment of $5,000 for each year of incarceration and $2,500 for each year served on supervised release, with provisions for prorating partial years. Additionally, it clarifies that final damages awarded will be reduced by any preliminary payments received.

Furthermore, the bill creates an Exoneration Compensation Account within the special revenue fund, which will be funded by a transfer of $250,000 from the general fund for fiscal year 2026. This account is designated for the payment of preliminary monetary damages as outlined in the new subdivision. The legislation aims to ensure that exonerated individuals receive timely financial support while also establishing a sustainable funding mechanism for these payments.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 590.11, 611.365