The sister of a man who was exonerated after nearly 20-years behind bars is pushing for more help for families in similar situations.
Marvina Haynes stood on the Minnesota State Capitol Monday where she announced a bill she hopes that lawmakers will pass next session.
"The Marvina Hayes Act is about recognizing that when wrongful convictions happen, the damage extends far beyond one person," says Haynes.
She says families often face financial hardship and years of uncertainty as they seek justice for their loved ones.
That's why Haynes is proposing a new law that would offer trauma repair, mental health and housing support to those families.
"Families need trauma support families need resources, family needs advocates, family needs help carrying that burden, so no family should feel that they have to carry it along," Haynes added.
Marvin Hayes was released in 2023. He was awarded $4.5 million by the state for the murder he did not commit.
