Bill > SB5520

This bill modifies Washington state's Wrongly Convicted Persons Act to improve the process for individuals seeking compensation after being wrongfully convicted and imprisoned. Key changes include defining "actually innocent" as a person for whom evidence no longer supports a felony conviction, and "significant new exculpatory information" as new evidence that supports a claim of wrongful conviction and wasn't considered at trial. The bill expands who can file a claim, including for deceased or incapacitated individuals, and clarifies that claims survive to a personal representative. It also revises the requirements for filing a claim, emphasizing that the claimant must demonstrate by a preponderance of the evidence that they did not commit the crime, did not commit perjury or fabricate evidence, and are not currently incarcerated. The bill also introduces a six-year statute of limitations for filing claims after pardon, judicial relief, or release from custody, and allows for reconsideration of previously denied claims. Additionally, it updates compensation amounts for years of confinement and parole, and clarifies attorney fee calculations. Finally, it amends provisions related to tuition waivers for wrongly convicted individuals and their children, and repeals an existing section of the law related to claims and definitions.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5520&Year=2025&Initiative=false