State Statutes Overview
The use of forensic DNA is partially governed by State statutes—laws established by State legislatures. Generally, State statutes determine:
- Who must submit a DNA sample for inclusion in the databases. Learn more about and find State DNA database statutes.
- Who can apply for DNA testing after an offender is convicted and how that process must proceed. Learn more about and find State postconviction statutes.
State-by-State Statutes
The following are three ways to find statutes affecting DNA in a particular State:
Collected Statues for all States. Find summarized State legislation, as provided by the National Clearinghouse for Science, Technology, and Law, a program of the National Institute of Justice.
Search or Contact a State legislature. Find links to a State Legislature's Web site.
