During the Florida State Legislature's Criminal Justice Subcommittee meeting on February 19, 2025, a pivotal discussion centered on HB 59, a bill aimed at reforming the state's compensation laws for victims of wrongful incarceration. Representative Koster presented the bill, highlighting its critical changes designed to ease the path for exonerees seeking justice.

HB 59 proposes three significant amendments: extending the filing deadline for compensation claims from 90 days to two years, eliminating the controversial "clean hands" provision—which currently makes Florida the only state with such a requirement—and allowing exonerees the option to pursue compensation through civil lawsuits or the state compensation process. This bill addresses the plight of 18 exonerees who have faced barriers in receiving compensation, totaling around 300 years of wrongful imprisonment.

Koster emphasized the moral obligation of the state to rectify its mistakes, stating, "When we as a state get it wrong and incarcerate somebody, take away their liberty, then we as a state need to make it right." The financial implications are substantial, with potential compensation for these exonerees amounting to approximately $15 million.

The discussion underscored the urgency of reforming Florida's compensation laws, as many exonerees have waited over a decade for justice. The bill's passage could mark a significant step forward in ensuring that victims of wrongful incarceration receive the support and compensation they deserve.