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HB 2813

erroneous convictions; compensation

57th Legislature - First Regular Session Introduced by Khyl Powell

Arizona HB 2813 creates a compensation system for exonerated individuals, providing financial restitution for years wrongfully served in prison.

Senate Second Reading
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Bill Summary · HB 2813

Legislative bill overview

HB 2813 establishes a compensation mechanism for individuals who have been exonerated after serving time for crimes they did not commit in Arizona. The bill creates a structured process for wrongfully convicted persons to seek financial restitution from the state based on the years of imprisonment served.

Why is this important

Wrongful convictions represent a fundamental failure of the justice system that can devastate individuals' lives, resulting in lost years, psychological trauma, and economic hardship. This bill addresses a gap in victim support by providing a formal pathway for exonerees to receive compensation, which exists in varying forms in most U.S. states but was previously limited or absent in Arizona.

Potential points of contention

  • Compensation amounts: Disagreement over what constitutes fair payment per year of wrongful imprisonment and whether payments should vary based on circumstances of the conviction
  • Eligibility criteria: Questions about how narrowly or broadly "erroneous conviction" is defined and what evidence standards are required to qualify for compensation
  • Fiscal impact: Concerns from state budget officials about potential costs if multiple exonerees seek compensation simultaneously, and whether funding mechanisms are adequate
  • Victim versus exoneree focus: Debate over whether state resources should prioritize compensating wrongly imprisoned individuals versus other criminal justice reforms or victim services

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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