HB284 Alabama 2012 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Oliver Robinson

Democrat

Co-Sponsors

Mary MooreJohn W. RogersJuandalynn Givan

Session

Regular Session 2012

Title

Relief, payment increase to wrongful incarcerated persons, Sec. 29-2-159 am'd

Summary

HB284 would increase the base compensation for wrongful incarceration from $50,000 to $75,000 per year of incarceration and allow additional discretionary awards through a legislative process.

What This Bill Does

It amends Section 29-2-159 to set a base award of $75,000 for each year of wrongful incarceration (or pro rata for partial years). The committee can recommend extra, discretionary compensation after a hearing, but any additional amount must be proposed to the Legislature in a bill. The base award is paid by the Comptroller from state funds, while supplemental amounts require future legislative action; the process includes hearings with evidence and counter-evidence, and the committee’s decision is not subject to appeal. The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval.

Who It Affects

• People who have been wrongly convicted and incarcerated in Alabama, who could receive a higher base award and potential extra compensation after a hearing.
• State agencies and officials involved in processing and funding these payments (Division of Risk Management, Comptroller, Attorney General or prosecuting office, and the Legislature).

Key Provisions

• Base award increases to $75,000 per year of incarceration (or pro rata for partial years).
• Discretionary supplemental compensation may be awarded after a hearing if warranted, to be proposed to the Legislature via a bill.
• Additional compensation requires legislative action for funding; base payment by the Comptroller from available state funds.
• Hearing process allows affidavits and testimony; the Attorney General or prosecutors may present counter evidence; committee determinations are not reviewable on appeal.
• Notice of certifications must be sent within 10 days; effective date is the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Relief Acts