NC H780

Requires the State to preserve all case files and evidence subject to disclosure under G.S. 15A-903 once the North Carolina Innocence Inquiry Commission notifies it of an inquiry.

Entitles the Commission to copies of all preserved records and access to inspect and examine all physical evidence held by the State.

Allows the Commission to take custody of physical evidence from the State for forensic and DNA testing, with requirements to maintain chain of custody and prevent contamination or degradation of biological evidence.

Permits the Commission to consume biological material during testing and upload DNA profiles to CODIS if the testing complies with FBI requirements and meets NDIS criteria.

Adds evidence referred to the Commission as a valid reason to prevent destruction of evidence under G.S. 15A-268(b), alongside existing reasons such as pending appeals or DNA testing motions.