California Assembly Bill AB13

California 2021-2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/7/20
• Refer: 1/11/21
• Report Pass: 3/25/21
• Refer: 3/26/21
• Report Pass: 4/8/21
• Refer: 4/8/21
• Refer: 4/21/21
• Report Pass: 5/20/21
• Engrossed: 6/1/21
• Refer: 6/2/21
• Refer: 6/9/21
• Report Pass: 6/23/21
• Refer: 6/24/21
• Report Pass: 7/14/21
• Refer: 7/15/21
• Refer: 8/16/21
• Report Pass: 8/2/22
• Refer: 8/2/22
• Report Pass: 8/8/22
• Enrolled: 8/25/22
• Chaptered: 9/2/22
• Passed: 9/2/22

Caption

California Victim Compensation Board: payment of claims.

Impact

The implementation of AB 13 will directly enhance the financial support available to the California Victim Compensation Board, allowing it to fulfill its mandate of compensating victims proven not to have committed crimes of which they were accused. By ensuring a swift appropriation of funds, the bill aims to alleviate immediate financial hardships faced by wrongfully accused individuals, thus reinforcing trust in the state's accountability mechanisms and support for its citizens.

Summary

Assembly Bill No. 13, also known as AB 13, focuses on the appropriation of funds to the California Victim Compensation Board for the payment of claims related to wrongful accusations. The bill seeks to allocate a provision of $2,497,600 from the General Fund for the compensation of specific claimants whose claims have been validated by the Board. This includes substantial amounts allocated to individuals who have faced false charges or wrongful accusations, emphasizing the importance of redressing wrongs facilitated through the judicial process.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding AB 13 is notably supportive among legislators and advocates of criminal justice reform, as the bill addresses significant issues surrounding wrongful accusations and the consequent ramifications. It is well-received as a necessary and urgent response to protect individuals who have been unjustly affected by the legal system. The bill's passage underscores a legislative commitment to rectifying injustices and providing necessary support to those who have suffered damage from incorrect legal actions.

Contention

Although AB 13 has gained widespread support, some discussions hint at the ongoing challenges regarding the execution of victim compensation laws at a broader scale. By declaring the bill as an urgency statute, legislators recognize the immediate need for action but may encounter complexities in implementation and fund distribution. This situation could lead to scrutiny about the efficiency and fairness of the compensation process facilitated by the California Victim Compensation Board.