New Law Sponsored by State Rep. Khyl Powell Grants Restitution and Record Expungement to Exonerated Arizonans
NEWS RELEASE
Monday, June 30, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Arizona House of Representatives
Representative Khyl Powell (R-14)
STATE CAPITOL, PHOENIX – Legislation sponsored by State Representative Khyl Powell to compensate Arizonans who were proven wrongfully convicted and incarcerated has been signed into law, following final passage by the Legislature.
The measure—originally introduced as HB2813 and later amended onto SB1500—creates a formal process for exonerated individuals to seek restitution from the state beginning in 2026. It also requires full expungement of the wrongful conviction and access to essential reintegration services.
“When the justice system fails, the burden should not fall on the innocent. This law can’t restore the years lost, but it removes the record that never should have existed and provides the support they need to rebuild a life.”
Under the new law, eligible individuals will receive 200% of Arizona’s median household income for each year they were wrongfully incarcerated. Additional compensation is available for time spent on death row or under sex offender registration. The law also reimburses out-of-pocket costs tied to the conviction and covers post-release services, including mental health care and education.
The law requires courts to expunge all records associated with the conviction and ensure they are sealed in state and federal systems. Prosecutors, law enforcement agencies, and corrections officials are barred from disclosing or using the expunged record for any purpose.
“Government must answer for the harm it causes. When the state locks up an innocent person, it should take responsibility. This law helps make that right.”
The legislation passed the Arizona House and Senate with bipartisan support.
Khyl Powell is a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives serving Legislative District 14 in Gilbert. He serves as Vice Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee.
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