WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 473

Criminal Procedure - As introduced, requires a person arrested for a felony offense to have a biological specimen taken by the arresting authority for the purpose of DNA analysis to determine identification characteristics specific to the person. - Amends TCA Title 18; Title 38, Chapter 6; Title 39 and Title 40, Chapter 35.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by John Crawford

Tennessee bill requires DNA collection from all felony arrestees for identification databases, raising constitutional search concerns and including innocent arrested persons.

Taken off notice for cal in s/c Finance, Ways and Means Subcommittee of Finance, Ways and Means Committee
#criminalprocedure
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 473

Legislative bill overview

HB 473 would require law enforcement to collect DNA biological specimens from all individuals arrested for felony offenses in Tennessee for identification purposes. The collected DNA would be analyzed and stored in a database to establish identification characteristics specific to each arrested person. This applies at the point of arrest rather than conviction.

Why is this important

DNA databases can assist law enforcement in solving crimes and identifying suspects across cases, potentially improving public safety outcomes. However, the bill raises significant civil liberties questions since it applies to arrested individuals who have not been convicted, meaning innocent people's genetic information would be permanently retained in state databases.

Potential points of contention

  • Fourth Amendment concerns: Mandatory DNA collection from all felony arrestees without consent or warrant raises constitutional questions about unreasonable searches, particularly since the Supreme Court has previously limited such collection
  • Innocent person inclusion: Database would contain genetic profiles of people who are arrested but ultimately found not guilty or have charges dismissed, potentially stigmatizing innocent individuals
  • Cost and implementation: Establishing and maintaining a statewide DNA database requires significant infrastructure, laboratory capacity, and ongoing funding that could strain criminal justice budgets
  • Privacy and data security: Long-term storage of genetic information creates vulnerability to data breaches and potential misuse beyond law enforcement purposes

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.