Bill > HB1248

This bill establishes a new process for utilizing advanced DNA testing, which includes DNA forensics, DNA analytics, and genetic genealogy, to investigate "cold cases" in Indiana, defined as homicide, sex offense, or high-risk missing person investigations that have been open for over five years with no pending charges, or coroner investigations to identify unknown victims. The bill outlines who can request this testing, including victims, eligible family members (defined broadly to include relatives by blood, marriage, adoption, or cohabitation), county coroners, and law enforcement agencies. It also details the requirements for "qualified entities," which are non-profit organizations exempt from federal income tax, dedicated to assisting in crime solving, and capable of funding the advanced DNA testing without state funds, including covering costs for the state police laboratory. These qualified entities will determine eligibility for testing based on factors like the order of requests, the date of the crime, and fund availability, and then notify the investigating law enforcement agency, which will collaborate with a testing laboratory to determine the best testing methods. The bill also clarifies that law enforcement agencies can still conduct advanced DNA testing at their own expense.