Bill > HB2915

This bill establishes provisions for individuals in the custody of or supervised by the department of corrections to bring a "freestanding claim of actual innocence," meaning a claim based solely on being factually innocent of the crime for which they were convicted, separate from other legal challenges. The court can review and rule on such claims if there is "clear and convincing evidence"—a high standard of proof—that supports the claim and makes the original judgment seem incorrect. This evidence can include information not presented at the original trial, plea hearing, or other proceedings, and can be newly discovered or newly available. If the person fails to initially present enough evidence to suggest actual innocence, the court can dismiss the claim without a hearing. However, if the court finds, after considering all evidence, that the high burden of proof has been met and the original judgment is undermined, it must overturn the judgment and provide written explanations for its decision.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2915&year=2026&code=R