H 4536
An Act to establish a DNA exception rule for victims of rape
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Bill overview
This bill creates a DNA exception rule for victims of rape in Massachusetts. It allows for the retention of rape evidence DNA kits for at least 15 years, regardless of the statute of limitations for the underlying offense. Additionally, it enables prosecutors to file charges related to rape offenses at any time after the crime occurred if the perpetrator’s identity is identified through DNA evidence, even if the statute of limitations has expired.
Key provisions
- DNA evidence kits collected from rape cases will be retained for a minimum of 15 years.
- Prosecutors can file charges related to rape offenses after the statute of limitations has passed if DNA evidence identifies the perpetrator.
- The DNA exception applies to offenses listed in chapters 265 and 277.
- The exception does not affect the statute of limitations for the underlying offense.
- The bill amends existing laws to accommodate this new DNA exception rule.
- The Judiciary Committee reported the bill favorably.
- The bill was referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.
Who is affected
- Victims of rape
- Prosecutors
- Law enforcement
- The judicial system
- Individuals whose DNA is collected
Notable changes
- Allows for the indefinite retention of rape evidence DNA kits.
- Extends the possibility of prosecution beyond the standard statute of limitations for rape cases.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Joint Committee on the Judiciary
Cosponsors
Adam J. Scanlon
Adrianne Pusateri Ramos
Brian M. Ashe
Carmine Lawrence Gentile
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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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