LINCOLN (AP) — Felons behind bars or on probation in Nebraska will have to submit their DNA samples to the state, and pay for the process, beginning later this year.
On Thursday, lawmakers gave final approval to a bill (LB190) with those requirements. Supporters say more DNA collection could help solve cold cases and keep innocent people from going to jail.
Nebraska is one of three states that doesn’t have such a law. Only those convicted of certain felonies in Nebraska, such as sex crimes and murder, have to give DNA samples.
The federal government can collect DNA samples from anyone arrested by federal law enforcement.
Under the Nebraska bill, felons will have to pay the roughly $30 cost of the DNA kits needed to collect and submit the samples.
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