Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB912

Introduced

7/31/25

Refer

7/31/25

Caption

In DNA data and testing, further providing for policy, for definitions, for State DNA Data Base, for State Police recommendation of additional offenses and annual report, for DNA sample required upon conviction, delinquency adjudication and certain ARD cases, for DNA data base exchange, for expungement and for mandatory cost; and making an editorial change.

Impact

The proposed legislation is expected to implement significant changes to how DNA data is collected, stored, and shared within the state. By mandating DNA samples upon conviction and adjudication, SB912 potentially expands the database of genetic information available for law enforcement use. This has implications for not only criminal investigations but also poses questions about privacy and the rights of individuals whose DNA is retained in state databases.

Summary

SB912 focuses on enhancing the state's framework for DNA data and testing. The bill introduces policies for defining terms related to the State DNA Data Base, establishes guidelines for the collection of DNA samples upon conviction or delinquency adjudication, and proposes the requirement for an annual report on DNA data utilization. This legislative effort aims to streamline the processes involved in DNA evidence handling, ensuring clarity and efficiency within the state's criminal justice system.

Sentiment

There are mixed sentiments surrounding SB912. Supporters argue that enhanced DNA testing capabilities will improve public safety and aid law enforcement in resolving cases more efficiently. However, critics voice concerns regarding the ethical implications of mandatory DNA collection and the potential for misuse of sensitive genetic data. This discussion reflects a broader societal debate on balancing public safety and individual privacy rights.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the mandatory nature of DNA sampling, which some opponents view as an infringement on individual rights, particularly for those who may be adjudicated without a conviction in specific circumstances such as certain ARD cases. The proposed expungement policy and its parameters are also subjects of debate, with critics questioning how effectively the bill safeguards personal privacy and ensures that data is only retained as necessary.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB1665

In DNA data and testing, further providing for policy, for definitions, for State DNA Data Base, for State Police recommendation of additional offenses and annual report and for DNA sample required upon conviction, delinquency adjudication and certain ARD cases, providing for request for modified DNA search and further providing for DNA data base exchange, for expungement and for mandatory cost; and making an editorial change.

PA HB742

In DNA data and testing, further providing for policy, for definitions, for DNA sample required upon conviction, delinquency adjudication and certain ARD cases, for collection from persons accepted from other jurisdictions, for expungement and for mandatory cost.

PA SB559

In firearms and other dangerous articles, further providing for definitions and for possession of firearm by minor; and making editorial changes.

PA SB196

Further providing for definitions; and making editorial changes.

PA HB2378

Further providing for definitions; and making editorial changes.

PA SB411

Further providing for definitions; providing for Statewide stroke registry; and making an editorial change .

PA HB1130

In food protection, further providing for definitions and providing for reporting of GRAS substances and for public database of GRAS reports.

PA HB228

In the State Board of Education, further providing for definitions and providing for academic standards review; and making editorial changes.

PA SB45

In human trafficking, further providing for definitions, providing for the offense of promoting prostitution, for the offense of living off of prostituted persons and for the offense of patronizing prostitution and further providing for grants; in public indecency, further providing for prostitution and related offenses; establishing the Prevention of Human Trafficking Restricted Account; in child protective services, further providing for definitions; in sentencing, further providing for sexual offenses and tier system; in DNA data and testing, further providing for definitions; in interstate compacts, further providing for supervision of persons paroled by other states; and, in powers and duties relating to the Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs, further providing for consideration of criminal convictions.

PA HB1485

Further providing for death benefits for public works employees, coroners and staff persons and for definitions; and making an editorial change.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.