Debbie Smith Act of 2023

Debbie Smith Act of 2023

This bill reauthorizes through FY2029 the Debbie Smith DNA Backlog Grant Program. The program provides grants to state and local governments to improve and expand the collection and analysis of DNA evidence, including evidence in sexual assault kits.

Bill 118 s 499, also known as the Debbie Smith Act of 2023, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The bill is named after Debbie Smith, a survivor of sexual assault who became a leading advocate for the use of DNA evidence in solving crimes.

The main purpose of the Debbie Smith Act of 2023 is to reauthorize and strengthen the Debbie Smith DNA Backlog Grant Program. This program provides funding to state and local law enforcement agencies to help them process DNA evidence in a timely manner. By reducing the backlog of untested DNA evidence, the bill aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the criminal justice system.

In addition to reauthorizing the Debbie Smith DNA Backlog Grant Program, the bill also includes provisions to enhance training for forensic scientists and improve the quality of DNA testing procedures. It also seeks to expand the use of DNA evidence in solving cold cases and identifying missing persons. Overall, the Debbie Smith Act of 2023 is a bipartisan effort to support law enforcement agencies in their efforts to solve crimes and bring perpetrators to justice. By providing funding and resources to address the backlog of DNA evidence, the bill aims to improve public safety and ensure that victims of crime receive the justice they deserve.