A victim’s criminal history or felony status shall not automatically prevent compensation to that victim or the victim’s family. However, no compensation may be granted to a victim or applicant under this Act while the applicant or victim is held in a correctional institution. For purposes of this Section, the death of a felon who is serving a term of parole, probation, or mandatory supervised release shall be considered a discharge from that sentence.
     A victim who has been convicted of a felony may apply for assistance under this Act at any time but no award of compensation may be considered until the applicant meets the requirements of this Section.
     The changes made to this Section by this amendatory Act of the 96th General Assembly apply to actions commenced or pending on or after the effective date of this amendatory Act of the 96th General Assembly.