CA SB980

Allows courts to order hearings on DNA testing motions if the convicted person meets specified requirements, rather than at the court's discretion, and permits courts to order prosecutors and law enforcement to provide DNA lab reports, evidence logs, and related documents upon request.

Extends the response period for prosecutors to file responses to DNA testing motions from 60 days to 90 days, with either party able to request an additional 60 days to brief specified issues.

Lowers the evidentiary burden for DNA testing by requiring convicted persons to demonstrate only that DNA testing would be relevant to identity (rather than dispositive) and prohibits courts from determining ultimate relief eligibility while evaluating motions.

Establishes procedures for uploading DNA profiles of unknown contributors into the State and National DNA Index Systems following court approval, with specified conditions and notice requirements.

Extends the retention period for biological evidence from 90 days to 180 days after notification and allows requests to preserve evidence for up to one year before filing a DNA testing motion.