HB 15-1312: DNA Collection from Misdemeanor Convictions

• Expands DNA sample collection requirement to include persons convicted on or after July 1, 2015 of eight specified misdemeanors: third degree assault, menacing, reckless endangerment, theft, criminal mischief, child abuse, violation of a protection order, and harassment.

• DNA samples must be collected within 35 days of sentencing, with collection responsibility assigned to the Department of Corrections, sheriff, community corrections program, judicial department, or probation department depending on the sentence type.

• Excludes offenders granted deferred judgment and sentencing unless the deferral is revoked or otherwise required by statute.

• Offenders must pay for collection and chemical testing of their biological substance samples for genetic marker determination to be entered into the Colorado Bureau of Investigation DNA database.

• Includes a safety clause declaring the act necessary for immediate preservation of public peace, health, and safety.