CA AB141

Enacts the Justice Act of 2019 to authorize the County of Sacramento and other California counties to seek reimbursement for reasonable and necessary costs incurred in prosecuting and defending Joseph DeAngelo on murder and kidnapping charges spanning 1974-1986 across at least 11 counties.

Allows counties other than Sacramento to claim reimbursement if they have a memorandum of understanding with Sacramento regarding cost allocation and their employees operate under Sacramento's lead prosecutor or defense counsel direction.

Establishes a 12-month filing deadline for cost claims measured from the close of the month costs were incurred, and requires the Controller to reimburse within 60 days of receiving a statement of costs or explain reasons for denial.

Creates the Justice Act of 2019 Fund within the State Treasury to provide reimbursement funds and requires the Controller to request deficiency appropriations if sufficient funds are unavailable.

Protects defense cost statements as confidential under the same standards as Penal Code Section 987.9, with limited exceptions allowing the Attorney General access to relevant portions when a defendant raises related issues on appeal.