SB 17-125

Senate Bill 17-125, also known as "Lump-sum Compensation For Exonerated Persons," allows people who were wrongly convicted of crimes and have been exonerated to receive their state compensation in one lump sum instead of annual payments. To qualify for this option, the person must inform relevant government officials, complete a financial management course, and secure health insurance. This bill has been signed into law, meaning that it is now official and exonerated individuals can choose to receive their compensation as a single payment according to these new rules.

Official Summary

Current law requires the state to compensate persons who were wrongly convicted of crimes and subsequently incarcerated. Such compensation is paid in annual payments of $100,000 until the state's duty of compensation is satisfied. The bill allows an exonerated person to elect to receive the remaining balance of the state's duty of compensation in a lump sum by: Notifying the state court administrator, the governor, and the general assembly of such election; Completing a personal financial management instruction course; and Acquiring and committing to maintain a qualified health insurance plan.(Note: This summary applies to the reengrossed version of this bill as introduced in the second house.)

Votes