HB2813 Summary: Erroneous Convictions; Compensation

• Creates a civil cause of action allowing individuals to seek state compensation for felony convictions when they were pardoned for innocence, had convictions reversed with charges dismissed or acquittal on retrial, or entered a no-contest plea while maintaining innocence after conviction reversal.

• Awards compensation of 200% of Arizona's median household income for each year incarcerated (adjusted for inflation), plus up to $25,000 in attorney fees, with additional compensation available for registration requirements, reintegrative services, health care costs, and other damages related to the erroneous conviction.

• Provides non-monetary services including reimbursement for up to 52 hours of mental health treatment at $250/hour, up to 120 credit hours of postsecondary education, and up to four financial planning classes within 12 months of judgment.

• Requires automatic expungement and sealing of all arrest, charge, conviction and sentencing records, destruction of DNA and fingerprint samples, and restoration of civil rights including firearm possession unless ineligible on other grounds.

• Establishes a two-year statute of limitations for filing claims measured from the date conviction is overturned, charges dismissed, acquittal rendered, or plea entered; or from the bill's effective date for those previously convicted and released.