This bill addresses the backlog of DNA evidence and sexual assault kit testing by directing the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to allocate specific funding toward resolving the issue. Key provisions include:
Targeted Funding: The CBI must use specifically appropriated funds to address backlogged DNA evidence and sexual assault kit testing.
External Contracting: CBI is authorized to contract with external labs to expedite the processing of evidence.
Public Transparency: A dashboard will be created on the Department of Public Safety’s website to update the public on the backlog.
Legislative Oversight: The CBI must provide updates to the General Assembly every 30 days, from March 10, 2025, through June 30, 2026.
This bill will enhance both accountability and efficiency in handling forensic evidence, particularly in sexual assault cases.
Summary
Joint Budget Committee. The bill requires the Colorado bureau
of investigation (CBI) to spend specifically appropriated money on backlogged DNA evidence and sexual assault kit tests. Additionally, the bill allows the CBI to contract with external labs to perform the testing.
The bill requires CBI to create a dashboard on the department of
public safety's website to update the public on the backlog. CBI shall provide the general assembly with updates on the backlog every 30 days from March 10, 2025, through June 30, 2026.
