This bill proposes the repeal of sections 105.711 and 650.058 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri and introduces new sections, including 105.711, 506.400, and 506.403, which focus on compensation for individuals wrongfully convicted of crimes. A significant aspect of the legislation is the creation of a "State Legal Expense Fund," funded by appropriations from the General Assembly and other sources, to cover claims or judgments against the state and certain health care providers and attorneys. The bill outlines specific conditions for payments from this fund, including limits on amounts for various services, and establishes rules for contract procedures and documentation of care provided by professionals. It also limits liability for state officers and employees acting in their official capacity. Furthermore, the bill defines a "claimant" as someone wrongfully convicted and outlines the criteria for establishing innocence, including the reversal of conviction and proof of non-culpability. Claimants can file lawsuits within two years of their charges being dismissed or a pardon being granted, with damages covering imprisonment days, parole years, and attorney's fees, subject to specific limits. The legislation also ensures automatic expungement of records for those declared actually innocent, provides tuition assistance for higher education, and establishes a restitution process with caps and conditions. Overall, the bill aims to facilitate justice and support for wrongfully convicted individuals, aiding their reintegration into society while providing a structured approach to managing claims against the state.

Statutes affected:
Introduced (4950H.01): 105.711, 506.400, 506.403, 650.058