MS HB1227

Law enforcement agencies must submit sexual assault evidence to the Department of Public Safety forensic laboratory within 10 business days of receipt, with analysis to be completed within 6 months if staffing and resources are available.

Each evidence submission must include signed certification stating the evidence is being submitted in connection with a prior or current criminal investigation.

Department of Public Safety must expunge DNA records from databases upon written confirmation from investigating agencies, district attorneys, or the Attorney General that the record was not connected to a criminal investigation.

By July 1, 2015, law enforcement agencies must report the number of unanalyzed sexual assault cases to the Department of Public Safety, with all pre-existing cases submitted for analysis within 180 days of the act's effective date.

By January 1, 2016, the Department of Public Safety must submit a plan to state leadership detailing timeline for case analysis, inventory summary, and any funding or resource requests necessary for completion.