Establish compensation for wrongful conviction

This bill establishes a compensation program for individuals in Montana who have been wrongfully convicted of felony crimes and subsequently exonerated. It allows eligible claimants to file a civil lawsuit against the state or county of conviction within three years of exoneration, requiring proof by a preponderance of the evidence that they did not commit the crime. The legislation includes a $5,000 transition assistance grant for those who file claims, but requires reimbursement if the claim is denied, and mandates that claimants waive other legal remedies in exchange for potential compensation. Additionally, the bill provides for expungement of convictions and creates a state special revenue account to fund damages, costs, and attorney fees, while excluding compensation for crimes that are now legal.