H.R. 5540

119th CONGRESS 1st Session

To amend title 28, United States Code, to adjust the penalty for unjust conviction and imprisonment, and for other purposes.

IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES · September 19, 2025 · Sponsor: Ms. Waters · Committee: Committee on the Judiciary

Table of contents

• H.R. 5540
  • SEC. 1. Short title
  • SEC. 2. Penalty for unjust conviction and imprisonment

SEC. 1. Short title

• This Act may be cited as the Justice for Exonerees Act.

SEC. 2. Penalty for unjust conviction and imprisonment

• Section 2513 of title 28, United States Code, is amended—
  • in subsection (e), by striking $50,000and inserting $70,000; and
    • The amount of damages awarded under subsection (e) shall be adjusted for inflation annually, based on the Consumer Price Index.
  • by adding at the end the following: