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Utah Legislature: Legislators approve DNA collection bill

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Published: Thursday, March 11 2010 9:36 p.m. MST

Summary

Lawmakers approved a bill that will expand a state program to collect DNA from people arrested for violent crimes.

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  • Legislature closes after budget deal

SALT LAKE CITY — Lawmakers approved a bill that will expand a state program to collect DNA from people arrested for violent crimes.

Under SB277, DNA will be collected upon arrest, instead of after conviction, as it is currently. DNA only will be collected from individuals charged with violent felonies and will not be processed until a "probable cause" has been proved.

Supporters, including activist Ed Smart, father of kidnapping victim Elizabeth Smart, claim the measure will convict more offenders and exonerate innocent people.

Rep. Ryan Wilcox, R-Ogden, said the DNA exonerates as much as it convicts.

"This is about protecting the innocent, not violent felons," he said.

But opponents feared the scope of the bill could still infringe on civil rights, potentially leading to mistrials.

"There is a significant risk if we head down this path," said Rep. Kay McIff, R-Richfield, a former district court judge.

The bill passed the House 51-23. It now awaits the governor's signature.

— Josh Smith

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  • Legislature closes after budget deal

Featured Comments

See all 6 comments »
Anonymous

Great news for big brother!

  • 9:46 p.m. March 11, 2010
  • Top comment
At last

the legislature does something that makes sense.

  • 9:55 p.m. March 11, 2010
  • Top comment
KarenFoster

So many lives will be saved! So much pain will be avoided! So many crimes will be prevented! It will protect the innocent and keep the innocent out of jail. It will help prevent cases from growing cold. Utah is the 22nd state to pass legislation More..

  • 6:52 a.m. March 12, 2010
  • Top comment
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Josh Smith

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