Bill > HB327

This bill creates a civil cause of action allowing claimants to seek damages from the state for wrongful conviction. The bill establishes the requirements for a claimant to bring such a claim, including that the claimant was convicted, imprisoned, and later found to be innocent. If the court finds the claimant is entitled to damages, the bill provides for an award of $179 per day of imprisonment, up to $65,000 per fiscal year, as well as additional compensation for time served on parole or as a registered sex offender. The bill also provides for tuition assistance at public institutions of higher education for claimants awarded damages.