SB83 Summary

• Amends Code of Alabama Sections 15-12-4, 15-12-21, and 15-12-22 regarding indigent defense systems, advisory boards, and attorney compensation.

• Modifies voluntary indigent defense advisory board composition to include the presiding circuit judge as chair, local circuit bar association president, two criminal/juvenile court attorneys, and one other attorney selected by bar commissioners.

• Increases attorney compensation caps for appointed counsel: Class A felonies from $4,000 to $6,500; Class B felonies from $3,000 to $6,000; Class C/D felonies from $2,000 to $4,500; juvenile cases from $2,500 to $4,500; appeals from $2,500 to $5,000.

• Extends bill submission deadline from 90 to 120 days after case conclusion and extends State Comptroller payment deadline from 90 to 120 days from court certification; provides 6% interest if payment delayed beyond 90 days.

• Requires state to provide reimbursement for indigent health care services at Medicare reimbursement rates; bill effective October 1, 2024.