Bill > HB93

This bill establishes a comprehensive compensation system for individuals who have been wrongly convicted of felony crimes in Montana. The bill defines a "claimant" as someone who was convicted and imprisoned for a felony they did not commit and is no longer incarcerated. To receive compensation, a claimant must file a petition in district court within three years of their conviction being dismissed or overturned, providing clear and convincing evidence of their innocence. If successful, the claimant can receive $80,000 for each year of imprisonment, an additional $25,000 for years on parole or probation, and a $5,000 transition assistance grant. The compensation package also includes up to two years of tuition assistance, one year of state-funded medical insurance, and reimbursement of legal costs up to $25,000. The bill requires the claimant to waive other legal remedies and mandates the expungement of their criminal records if a certificate of innocence is issued. The county where the conviction occurred will be responsible for 75% of the compensation, with the remaining 25% covered by the state through a special exoneree compensation fund. The bill aims to provide financial and practical support to individuals who have been wrongly convicted, helping them reintegrate into society after their exoneration.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC0318