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Joint committee approves $63,000 for DNA collection tied to SB 1226
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Summary
Legislative analysts told the joint committee Senate Bill 1226 requires DNA and thumbprint collection for two additional misdemeanors; the committee approved a $63,000 ongoing appropriation to Idaho State Police forensic services based on an estimate of roughly 630 convictions per year.
Noah Peterson, budget policy analyst with the Legislative Services Office, briefed the committee on a trailer appropriation to implement Senate Bill 1226. Peterson said the bill adds misdemeanor battery and domestic violence to offenses requiring collection of DNA samples and thumbprint impressions. He said the Idaho State Police estimated an annual fiscal impact of $63,000, calculated at roughly $100 per conviction and an estimated 630 convictions per year.
Senator Winthrop moved to add $63,000 ongoing to the Idaho State Police’s forensic services program from the general fund; Representative Green seconded. Senator Winthrop told the committee the bill had passed both chambers unanimously and called it a public‑safety measure, saying the added samples will improve forensic capacity.
The committee voted and Chairman Tanner announced the Senate recorded eight ayes, zero nays and two absent/excused, and the House recorded 10 ayes and zero nays. The motion passed and will carry a do‑pass recommendation.
The analyst said ISP did not anticipate needing new equipment or personnel and had used conviction data under Idaho Code sections cited in the packet to estimate demand and costs.
