On January 27, 2025, Washington State introduced Senate Bill 5520, a legislative proposal aimed at reforming the compensation process for wrongly convicted individuals. The bill seeks to extend the time frame for filing compensation claims from three years to six years following a pardon, judicial relief, or release from custody. This change addresses concerns that the previous three-year limit was insufficient for individuals to navigate the complexities of the legal system after wrongful convictions.

Key provisions of Senate Bill 5520 include the tolling of the six-year period if the state challenges or appeals the grant of judicial relief or release. Additionally, the bill allows individuals wrongfully convicted before July 28, 2013, to file claims within three years of the bill's effective date, ensuring that those affected by past injustices can seek redress.

Another significant aspect of the bill is the proposed tuition waiver for wrongly convicted individuals and their children. Under the bill, state universities and colleges would waive tuition and fees for wrongly convicted persons and their children, provided they meet certain residency and age requirements. This initiative aims to support the reintegration of these individuals into society and provide educational opportunities for their families.

The bill has sparked discussions among lawmakers and advocacy groups, with supporters highlighting the importance of justice and rehabilitation for those wrongfully convicted. Critics, however, have raised concerns about the potential financial implications for state educational institutions and the administrative burden of implementing the tuition waivers.

Senate Bill 5520 represents a significant step toward addressing the needs of wrongly convicted individuals in Washington State. If passed, it could enhance access to justice and education for those who have suffered from wrongful convictions, while also prompting further discussions on the broader implications of wrongful convictions in the legal system. The bill is currently under review, with further debates expected in the coming weeks as lawmakers consider its potential impact on the state's legal and educational frameworks.