Bill > SB1500

This bill establishes a comprehensive compensation program for individuals who have been erroneously convicted of felonies in Arizona. The legislation allows individuals to file a claim in superior court seeking compensation if they can prove they were wrongfully convicted, did not commit the crime, and did not cause their own conviction through perjury or evidence fabrication. Successful claimants can receive financial compensation, including $200% of the median household income for each year of incarceration, up to $500,000 in additional damages, and specific amounts for special circumstances like time spent on death row. The bill also provides additional non-monetary benefits such as mental health treatment (up to 52 clinical hours), reimbursement for educational credits, and financial planning services. Furthermore, the legislation mandates the expungement of the wrongful conviction records, restoration of civil rights, and destruction of biological samples. The bill creates an "Erroneous Convictions Fund" to finance these compensation claims and includes provisions to notify and potentially seek reimbursement from local jurisdictions if employee misconduct contributed to the wrongful conviction. Notably, the program will be effective from December 31, 2025, and is set to be repealed on June 30, 2027, suggesting it is initially established as a pilot program to address the unique challenges faced by individuals who have been unjustly imprisoned.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services, Justice

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/82930