WeVote
Log In

Bill

WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 140

Legislative bill overview

SB 140 amends Utah's law enforcement DNA collection and database procedures, modifying how DNA evidence is collected, stored, and used by law enforcement agencies. The bill, sponsored by Steve Eliason and Jen Plumb, was signed into law on March 26, 2025, following passage through both chambers.

Why is this important

DNA databases are central to modern criminal investigations, affecting both public safety and individual privacy rights. Changes to collection and retention policies directly impact how law enforcement can investigate crimes, identify suspects, and exonerate the innocent—while raising questions about privacy protections and scope of government surveillance.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of collection: Whether the law expands DNA collection to individuals not yet convicted, such as arrestees, which raises due process and privacy concerns
  • Database retention and deletion: Unclear policies on how long DNA profiles are retained and under what circumstances they're expunged, affecting citizens later exonerated or charges dismissed
  • Access and data sharing: Which agencies can access the database and whether DNA profiles can be shared with federal databases or third parties without sufficient oversight

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

Sign in to ask a question.