HI HR148

Requests the Attorney General's Office to convene a task force to study DNA collection policies for felony arrestees in other jurisdictions.

Task force must examine issues including expungement procedures, sample maintenance, collection timing and personnel, cost concerns, and implementation requirements such as kits and staffing needs.

Cites a 2005 Chicago case study showing that DNA collection upon arrest could have prevented 22 murders and 30 rapes involving 8 criminals with 21 prior felony arrests before violent crime convictions.

Notes that 19 states (Alabama, Alaska, California, Colorado, Florida, Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Missouri, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, and Virginia) have already enacted DNA collection laws for felony arrests.

Task force must report findings and legislative recommendations to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2012 Regular Session convenes, with copies transmitted to the Attorney General, county police chiefs, and prosecuting attorneys.