H4536
An Act to establish a DNA exception rule for victims of rape
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- Passed Senate
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Bill overview
This bill proposes to create an exception to Massachusetts’ existing DNA collection laws specifically for victims of rape. Currently, individuals who have experienced rape are not required to submit their DNA to the state’s database. This legislation would allow victims to voluntarily submit their DNA, which could be used in criminal investigations. It aims to provide a measure of support and potentially aid in the prosecution of offenders.
Key provisions
- Allows victims of rape to voluntarily submit their DNA.
- Does not require victims to submit their DNA.
- DNA submissions would be confidential and used only for investigative purposes.
- The bill does not create a new database; it utilizes the existing one.
- Victims would not be penalized for refusing to submit their DNA.
Who is affected
- Victims of rape
- Law enforcement agencies
- The Massachusetts criminal justice system
Notable changes
- Creates a voluntary DNA submission option for rape victims.
- Contrasts with the current policy requiring all arrestees to submit DNA.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Joint Committee on the Judiciary
Cosponsors
Adam J. Scanlon
Adrianne Pusateri Ramos
Bradley H. Jones Jr.
Brian M. Ashe
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Bill H.4536 194th (Current)
An Act to establish a DNA exception rule for victims of rape
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Sponsor: Joint Committee on the Judiciary Status: Referred to House Committee on Ways and Means
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Bill History Cosponsors Committee Vote Committee Summary
Bill History
Displaying 3 actions for Bill H.4536
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 9/25/2025 | House | Reported from the committee on The Judiciary |
| 9/25/2025 | House | New draft of H1987 |
| 9/25/2025 | House | Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means |
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