FL S7096

Removes the trial court's authority to appoint counsel for executive clemency proceedings in death penalty cases, transferring this responsibility to the Board of Executive Clemency.

Creates section 940.031, F.S., authorizing the Board of Executive Clemency to appoint private counsel to represent death-sentenced individuals in clemency proceedings at the board's sole discretion.

Establishes compensation of up to $10,000 for private counsel appointed by the Board for clemency representation, paid from General Revenue Funds appropriated to the Parole Commission.

Removes the previous $1,000 compensation provision for court-appointed attorneys representing death-sentenced individuals in clemency proceedings.

Clarifies that the appointment of clemency counsel under this section does not create a statutory right to counsel and is entirely within the board's discretion; effective July 1, 2014.