SB1525 Summary

• Consolidates four separate forensics and crime laboratory funds into a single Department of Public Safety Forensics Fund effective July 1, 2018, with monies allocated for crime laboratory operations, DNA testing, fingerprint identification systems, and forensic scientist training.

• Modifies criminal justice surcharge and fee distributions by adjusting percentages across multiple funds including the Criminal Justice Enhancement Fund, Victims' Rights Fund, and Victim Compensation and Assistance Fund.

• Transfers all unexpended monies from the repealed Crime Laboratory Operations Fund, Arizona Automated Fingerprint Identification System Fund, Crime Laboratory Assessment Fund, and Arizona DNA Identification System Fund to the new Department of Public Safety Forensics Fund.

• Adjusts court fee percentages distributed to state and local entities including judicial collection enhancement, domestic violence services, child abuse prevention, and elected officials' retirement plan funds.

• Authorizes temporary suspensions and modifications for fiscal year 2017-2018 including highway user revenue fund caps for Department of Public Safety, use of state aid to indigent defense fund for operating expenses, and specific GIITEM fund allocations to county sheriffs.