GBI seeks funding for DNA software, disaster recovery and lab staffing amid backlogs

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation told the House Public Safety Subcommittee that investment in technology and staff is essential to reduce crime-laboratory backlogs and support prosecutions.

Chris Hosey, speaking for the GBI, outlined several FY27 requests: contract funding for security at the coastal crime lab and headquarters, an off-premise disaster-recovery solution to meet Georgia Technology Authority policy, and consolidation of DNA software into a single system. Hosey specified the DNA-software item as about $79,009.20 and said it would replace two separate systems and streamline uploads to CODIS.

On laboratory operations, Hosey said GBI has 24 vacancies and is actively trying to hire 12 high-priority scientists in drug chemistry and biology; the agency has funding to hire half of those immediately. He described a pilot to use portable mass spectrometers and preliminary reporting that cut backlog in one judicial circuit; GBI plans to validate additional portable instruments and roll training out to agents by May.

"We have 24 vacancies...12 of them we're working to fill in those two high priority areas," Hosey said of crime-lab staffing. He emphasized that behind the technology requests are employees needed to process evidence quickly and reduce wrongful-conviction risk.

Committee members expressed support while asking about pay competitiveness and timelines for rolling out new tools. No formal appropriation vote occurred during the hearing.

Next procedural steps include staff review of the GBI requests as part of the FY27 appropriation process.