Legislature Advances Bill to Compensate Victims of Wrongful Convictions

By Daniel Stefanski |

The Arizona Legislature is advancing a significant piece of legislation aimed at addressing wrongful convictions. Last week, the House of Representatives unanimously passed HB 2813, which seeks to provide compensation for individuals wrongfully convicted and imprisoned in the state.

State Representative Khyl Powell, the bill’s sponsor, emphasized the need for accountability. “When the state wrongfully takes years of someone’s life, it has a responsibility to make things right,” he stated. Powell highlighted that the legislation aims to acknowledge past mistakes and support those unjustly imprisoned as they strive to rebuild their lives.

The bill outlines a structured approach for exonerated individuals to seek compensation. Specifically, it proposes that wrongfully convicted Arizonans receive 200% of the median household income for each year of incarceration. Additionally, it ensures access to essential resources including mental health services, educational opportunities, and financial planning assistance. One critical aspect of the legislation mandates the immediate expungement of all records related to wrongful convictions, freeing individuals from the stigma of an unjust past.

Support for HB 2813 has been voiced by various organizations. Representatives from the Arizona Justice Project, the American Civil Liberties Union of Arizona, and other advocacy groups expressed their backing. However, the bill faced opposition from the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office and the Arizona Association of Counties.

Next, HB 2813 will be reviewed by the Arizona Senate for further deliberation.