Missouri 2022 Regular Session

Missouri House Bill HB2412

Introduced
1/11/22  
Refer
1/20/22  
Report Pass
2/23/22  

Caption

Establishes and modifies provisions relating to individuals found to be actually innocent through any evidentiary method

Impact

The implementation of HB 2412 could result in significant changes in state laws regarding the treatment of individuals proven innocent. It is designed to streamline processes that currently can be complex and time-consuming, offering victims of wrongful convictions a clearer path to justice. The bill emphasizes the importance of utilizing all available evidentiary methods to substantiate claims of innocence, potentially leading to a growing number of exonerations over time. This could encourage further legal reforms aimed at enhancing fairness in the criminal justice system.

Summary

House Bill 2412 focuses on establishing and modifying provisions for individuals who have been found to be actually innocent through any evidentiary method. This bill aims to address issues within the criminal justice system concerning the wrongful conviction and exoneration of individuals, ensuring that those proven innocent receive appropriate relief and recognition in legal proceedings. The provisions outlined in the bill encompass various aspects, including the process for seeking exoneration and the methods by which innocence may be established, reflecting a movement towards justice reform.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2412 appears to be largely positive among criminal justice reform advocates, who view the bill as a crucial step towards rectifying past injustices. Proponents argue that this legislation would not only help restore the rights of wrongfully convicted individuals but also prevent future injustices by creating a more thorough review process. However, there may be some skepticism regarding the implementation of these provisions and whether they will be adequately enforced within the justice system.

Contention

While generally supported, there may be points of contention regarding how to best implement the proposed provisions and the adequacy of resources allocated for this purpose. Critics might raise concerns about the potential for bureaucratic impediments that could delay justice for individuals waiting for exoneration. Additionally, debates may arise about the definitions and standards of evidence required to prove actual innocence, with divergent views on how rigorous these standards should be.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MO HB1569

Establishes provisions relating to individuals found to be actually innocent through any evidentiary method

MO HB2474

Establishes provisions relating to restitution for individuals found to be actually innocent through any evidentiary method

MO HB113

Establishes provisions relating to restitution for individuals found to be actually innocent through any evidentiary method

MO HB1285

Establishes provisions relating to restitution for individuals found to be actually innocent through any evidentiary method

MO SB446

Modifies provisions relating to restitution for individuals who are actually innocent

MO SB886

Modifies provisions relating to restitution for individuals who are actually innocent

MO SB377

Modifies provisions relating to restitution for individuals who are actually innocent

MO HB1766

Modifies provisions relating to evidentiary collection kits

MO SB686

Establishes provisions allowing for freestanding claims of actual innocence

MO HB2246

Modifies provisions relating to the release of a person from prison

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.