March 2009 Report
News and Legislative updates for anyone seeking the latest information on forensic DNA policy and practice |
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AN ABBREVIATED VERSION OF THE MARCH 2009 REPORT IS BEING PUBLISHED DUE TO WORKLOAD ISSUES. THESE ITEMS WILL BRING TO YOUR ATTENTION A FEW IMPORTANT DEVELOPMENTS IN FORENSIC DNA. |
VERMONT PASSES BILL TO REQUIRE DNA UPON ARRAIGNMENT FOR ALL FELONY CHARGES
Vermont has become the 16th state to pass legislation to require DNA prior to conviction for certain felony crimes. The Vermont legislation requires automatic expungement, and will take effect in 2011, when a new crime laboratory is expected to be completed. The provision was passed as part of "Brooke's Law", which was a sex offender reform package named after a murdered Vermont child.
19 STATES INTRODUCE ARRESTEE DNA TESTING LAWS
19 States have already introduced bills to require DNA upon arrest for certain felonies, and several of these bills are moving through the legislative process -- including bills in Arkansas, Alabama, Colorado, Indiana, Missouri, Washington and Vermont. Please see the link below for an
COLORADO ARTICLE
VICTIM'S WEBSITE PUSHES FOR ARRESTEE DNA LEGISLATION
Article from Law Enforcement Technology magazine reports on efforts of victim's family to pass "Katie's Law" for arrestee DNA testing nationwide.
CONGRESS PASSES FULL FUNDING FOR THE DEBBIE SMITH DNA BACKLOG PROGRAM
For the first time ever, Congress has acted to fully fund the Debbie Smith DNA Backlog grants at $151 million for Fiscal Year 2009. Be sure to frequently visit the US Department of Justice's DNA website at www.dna.gov for details on how the funds will be spent.
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