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Sen. Wintrow asks committee to print RS 32987 to add misdemeanor-level DNA collection
Summary
Senator Melissa Wintrow asked the committee to print RS 32987, which would add two misdemeanors enabling DNA collection at the misdemeanor level; she cited research saying certain offenses intersect with violent crime at higher rates and indicated some sheriffs may support a narrowed bill.
Senator Melissa Wintrow presented RS 32987 and asked the Judiciary and Rules Committee to print the request so it can be drafted and scheduled for a future hearing. The RS would add two misdemeanor offenses to the list for which DNA may be collected.
Wintrow said she returned to the issue after prior debate in the House and told the committee research shows some offenses intersect with violent crime at higher rates — she cited a figure of 34 percent versus 5 percent for non-related cases — and said she has discussed a narrowed version of the proposal with stakeholders, including sheriffs. The committee voted to send the RS to print by voice vote.
Wintrow told the committee she would present further evidence and cold-case examples in a full hearing if the RS is printed. The printing step advances the RS to drafting and scheduling but does not itself change law.
