Georgia lacks compensation law for wrongfully convicted individuals

In Georgia, the issue of compensating people wrongfully convicted of crimes is still unresolved. Michael Woolfolk, who spent 19 years in prison for a crime he did not commit, attended a legislative meeting this year hoping to secure compensation. Daryl Lee Clark, another wrongfully convicted man, joined him. Georgia is one of 12 states without a law for compensating such individuals. Currently, those seeking compensation must appeal to the legislature for support. This has led to criticism that the system is overly political. Proposals have been made to transfer decision-making power to judges, but progress is uncertain. In other states, some lawmakers are working to update compensation laws. Missouri is set to improve its compensation program, while Florida and Oregon are also reviewing their laws. Pennsylvania is considering creating a new compensation system. Data shows that from 1989, over 1,700 wrongful conviction claims have been filed in various states. However, Georgia's lack of clear laws makes the process complex. In the state, only a small number of individuals have received compensation. A proposed bill in Georgia would allow wrongfully convicted people to receive $75,000 for each year served in prison. There could be additional compensation for those awaiting death sentences. Some lawmakers are debating whether to compensate individuals released due to legal errors or those found not guilty. Other states have different rules. For example, Florida excludes those with prior felony convictions from compensation. Some Georgia lawmakers express reluctance to change the current system, preferring that the legislature not act as judges. With a legislative deadline approaching, the future of compensation for Woolfolk and Clark remains uncertain. Woolfolk, now 45, feels the strain of starting over after losing so many years. Clark hopes for financial help as well.