Texas Commission adopts new forensic DNA rules and licensing updates

The Forensic Science Commission held its quarterly meeting on April 11, 2025, focusing on key issues related to forensic laboratory accreditation, compliance cases, and updates on licensing and proficiency monitoring.

One of the primary actions taken during the meeting was the adoption of a draft report addressing reporting issues raised by a complainant regarding the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. The motion to adopt the report was unanimously approved.

The commission also discussed the status of the crime laboratory accreditation program, reporting on 16 accreditation-related events this quarter. This included two pending audits and nine surveillance assessments. The commission is actively working to resolve ongoing issues and anticipates further updates in future meetings.

A significant topic was the proposal to distinguish rapid DNA analysis as a separate forensic discipline in the commission's rules, aligning with the categorizations established by accrediting bodies. This proposal was also approved.

Updates from the licensing advisory committee revealed that there are currently 1,339 licensed forensic analysts, with several pending renewal applications. The committee is developing a guidance document for proficiency monitoring and plans to conduct a mock proficiency monitoring program at an upcoming conference.

Additionally, the commission adopted changes to align coursework requirements for forensic biology DNA analysts with the FBI's updated quality assurance standards, replacing older compliance requirements.

The meeting concluded with updates on ongoing investigations, including a DNA reference laboratory and a specific complaint case. The commission aims to provide further reports on these investigations by the next meeting in July.

Overall, the meeting underscored the commission's commitment to enhancing forensic science standards and ensuring compliance within Texas laboratories.