AZ SB1694

Establishes a cause of action for individuals wrongfully convicted of felonies to seek damages from the state by proving conviction was reversed/vacated, charges dismissed or acquitted on retrial, and the claimant did not commit the crime.

Awards $65,000 per year of imprisonment and at least $25,000 for each year on parole, community supervision, or sex offender registry, paid as initial lump sum (not exceeding $100,000 or 25% of award) plus annual annuity (not exceeding $80,000 per year).

Provides claimant with attorney fees up to $25,000, counseling and housing assistance, 100% state-paid employee health insurance benefits, and waiver of tuition and required fees for up to 130 credit hours at postsecondary institutions.

Requires court to issue certificate of innocence and order expungement of conviction and arrest records from all state and federal databases, and destruction of biological samples if applicable.

Establishes two-year statute of limitations from dismissal, acquittal, or pardon; persons convicted before July 1, 2021 must file by July 1, 2023.