In a recent meeting of the Florida State Legislature's Appropriations Committee, significant strides were made towards supporting victims of wrongful incarceration. The committee favorably reported Senate Bill 130, which aims to amend Florida's compensation statute for exonerees, addressing long-standing issues that have left many without justice.

Senator Bradley, who sponsored the bill, highlighted three key changes designed to improve the compensation process for those wrongfully convicted. Notably, the bill extends the time frame for filing compensation claims from 90 days to two years, allowing exonerees more time to seek justice. It also eliminates the "clean hands" provision, which has been criticized as overly restrictive, and removes the civil bar that previously required exonerees to waive their civil rights in exchange for compensation. Instead, the bill proposes an offset, ensuring that exonerees can pursue civil remedies without losing their right to compensation.

Since the wrongful incarceration statute was enacted in 2018, 18 individuals have been denied compensation, amounting to a staggering 300 years of lost freedom. Some exonerees have waited over a decade for resolution. This bill seeks to rectify these injustices and provide the support that these individuals deserve after being wrongfully imprisoned.

The committee meeting also featured strong support from various advocacy groups, including the Innocence Project of Florida and Americans for Prosperity, who voiced their backing for the bill. Senator Bradley emphasized that the legislation is not about imposing penalties on criminals but rather about righting the wrongs done to those who have been exonerated and found innocent by the courts.

As the committee moves forward, the passage of SB 130 represents a crucial step in addressing the needs of exonerees in Florida, ensuring they receive the compensation and recognition they deserve for their suffering. The committee's actions reflect a commitment to justice and accountability, aiming to improve the lives of those affected by wrongful convictions.