NM SB51

Allows persons wrongfully convicted of misdemeanor or felony offenses in New Mexico state court to petition for exoneration and receive compensation of $75,000 per year imprisoned, $50,000 per year on probation/parole, plus an additional $25,000 per year if on death row

Provides actual damages for lost wages, pain and suffering, fines, fees, restitution, and child support arrearage, plus reasonable attorney fees and costs paid in a lump sum

Requires courts and the governor to provide written notice of rights under the act when overturning convictions, issuing habeas corpus writs, or granting pardons, with a six-year statute of limitations to file claims

Creates the wrongful conviction compensation fund as a nonreverting fund with a $9 million appropriation from the general fund, administered by the Department of Finance and Administration

Provides immediate financial assistance upon release of $6,000 for housing, food, and medical expenses plus $1,000 monthly for six months, and requires expungement of arrest, prosecution, and conviction records upon exoneration