VT H0564

Expands eligibility for wrongful conviction compensation to include exonerations based on any evidence, not just DNA testing

Requires claimants to prove by clear and convincing evidence: conviction of a felony, at least 6 months served, conviction reversal/vacatur/dismissal/acquittal or pardon, actual innocence, and no fabrication of evidence or perjury

Awards damages between $30,000 and $60,000 per year of incarceration, plus economic damages, up to 10 years of Medicaid-equivalent health coverage, reintegrative services costs, and attorney's fees

Claims must be filed in Washington County Superior Court within 3 years of exoneration, with the statute of limitations tolled during any State challenge to the exoneration

Applies retroactively to any exoneration occurring on or after July 1, 2007, and allows claims to survive the exoneree's death for prosecution by their estate