AZ SB1500

Establishes a process for individuals who were erroneously convicted of felonies to bring civil actions in superior court seeking state compensation based on a preponderance of evidence standard.

Awards compensation to successful claimants including: 200% of median household income per year incarcerated, up to $500,000 additional damages, $25,000 annually for death row or sex offender registration, reimbursement for fines/fees/restitution, and up to $25,000 in attorney fees.

Provides non-monetary services to erroneously convicted persons including mental health treatment (up to 52 hours at $250/hour), postsecondary education (up to 120 credit hours), and financial planning classes within twelve months of judgment.

Requires automatic expungement of conviction records, restoration of civil rights including firearm possession, and sealing of all arrest and conviction records from state and federal systems.

Establishes the Erroneous Convictions Fund administered by the Department of Administration to pay awards, with cities or counties reimbursing the fund if their employees committed harmful error or misconduct that caused the wrongful conviction; law becomes effective December 31, 2025 and is repealed June 30, 2027.