Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1359

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the DNA database at the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth.

Impact

The enactment of SB1359 will officially integrate the University of North Texas Health Science Center into Texas's criminal justice framework, as it allows for the utilization of the DNA database for critical forensic evaluations. By explicitly defining the center as a criminal justice agency, the bill facilitates compliance with federal laws concerning DNA analysis, specifically aligning it with established protocols under 42 U.S.C. Section 14132. This change is expected to bolster investigative efforts within the state, ultimately leading to enhanced success in solving cases that involve unidentified individuals.

Summary

Senate Bill 1359 aims to amend the existing Code of Criminal Procedure to designate the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth as a criminal justice agency capable of performing forensic DNA analyses. The bill primarily focuses on enhancing the operational capacity of the DNA database maintained by the center, emphasizing its role in identifying unidentified human remains and aiding in cases of high-risk missing persons. This legislative measure is motivated by the need for improved forensic science capabilities in addressing unresolved cases, which can significantly impact public safety and justice.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB1359 appears to be largely positive among legislative members and law enforcement agencies. Proponents view the bill as a necessary step towards modernizing Texas's criminal justice tools and improving the chances of resolving long-standing cases involving missing persons. The bill's objective of utilizing advanced forensic techniques is seen as a forward-thinking approach that aligns with national standards for handling DNA evidence.

Contention

While there has been broad support for SB1359, some discussions may highlight concerns about the privacy implications of growing DNA databases and the potential for misuse. However, specific points of contention have not been prominently noted in the available discussions surrounding the bill. The broad backing from both law enforcement and public safety advocates suggests a consensus on the importance of integrating better forensic capabilities into the state's criminal justice efforts.

Companion Bills

TX HB2385

Similar Relating to the DNA database at the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth.

Previously Filed As

TX HR1688

Commending Dr. Sylvia Trent-Adams on her appointment as president of the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth.

TX HB3506

Relating to the storage in and removal from certain DNA databases of certain DNA samples.

TX SB2123

Relating to the participation of the medical school at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler in the Joint Admission Medical Program.

TX HB4315

Relating to the participation of the medical school at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler in the Joint Admission Medical Program.

TX SB846

Relating to authorizing the insurance of revenue bonds for certain capital projects at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center at El Paso.

TX HR487

Honoring Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center on its achievements.

TX HB2871

Relating to the establishment by The University of Texas at Austin of a program to promote computer science education capacity in this state.

TX HB230

Relating to intelligence databases for combinations and criminal street gangs.

TX SB2429

Relating to reporting procedures and training programs for law enforcement agencies regarding missing children and missing persons.

TX HB3414

Relating to the statewide all payor claims database.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.