The state will soon need more money to pay for potential awards to those who were wrongfully convicted.
A state law says people who meet certain criteria can receive $50,000 for every year they spent incarcerated.
There are two people who will likely receive awards from the fund soon – and that would wipe out all the money currently set aside.
Now the state Attorney General’s office wants to work with the Legislature to make sure there’s enough money allocated when it passes the next budget.
Republican Representative Shane Hernandez chairs the House committee that works on the state budget.
“It’s something they’re entitled to and the past Legislature actually put some money in it. We’re looking to see what the governor’s suggestion is for this year’s budget.”
Governor Gretchen Whitmer is expected to present her budget recommendation in March.