HB 3093
Requires law enforcement agencies to take a DNA sample of a person arrested for certain crimes.
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Sign in to take actionPublic sentiment
Support
67%
Oppose
33%
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill requires Oregon law enforcement agencies to collect DNA samples from individuals arrested for certain crimes, including felonies, sex crimes, and burglary in the first degree. The collected samples must be destroyed upon the person’s request if the arrest results in an acquittal or dismissal. Funds from the Criminal Fine Account will be used to support DNA analysis and related activities. The bill also updates existing laws regarding DNA collection and storage, and establishes procedures for handling requests to destroy samples.
Key provisions
- Law enforcement agencies must obtain blood or buccal samples from individuals arrested for felonies, sex crimes, or first-degree burglary.
- Samples can be destroyed upon the arrested person’s request if the case is acquitted, dismissed, or the conviction is reversed.
- The Department of State Police will analyze DNA samples and maintain a criminal identification database.
- Funds from the Criminal Fine Account will be allocated for DNA collection, analysis, and related activities.
- Specific procedures are outlined for obtaining, transmitting, and destroying DNA samples.
- The department can adopt rules to ensure the accuracy and reliability of DNA testing.
- The bill amends existing laws related to DNA collection and storage, including ORS 137.076, 181A.155, 192.535, 419A.260 and 419C.473.
- The bill takes effect 91 days after the legislative session adjourns sine die.
Who is affected
- Law enforcement agencies
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
Supporters of the bill emphasize the importance of introducing DNA evidence in both current and cold cases, citing its potential to identify suspects and bring justice to victims. They argue that this approach can help prevent future crimes by allowing law enforcement agencies to gather critical information about individuals who commit violent acts. By providing police with the tools necessary to analyze DNA evidence, the bill aims to enhance public safety and support the community's right to feel protected from violent crime perpetrators.
Source: Testimony Summaries
Arguments opposed
Reasons to oppose this legislation.
Opponents of House Bill 3093 express concerns that the legislation's provisions for DNA collection without explicit consent could disproportionately impact marginalized communities, including Black, Indigenous, and other Oregonians of color. They argue that this practice violates individual privacy rights and perpetuates systemic injustices. Additionally, critics contend that the bill's reliance on DNA data raises significant concerns about racial profiling and exacerbates existing health disparities. By prioritizing public safety over individual autonomy, opponents believe the bill may inadvertently create a surveillance state that disproportionately affects vulnerable populations.
Source: Testimony Summaries