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Bill

HB 675

Public Safety - Rape Kit Testing - Tracking Program and Grant Fund

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Lauren Arikan and 14 co-sponsors

Maryland establishes rape kit tracking program and grant fund to accelerate DNA testing of sexual assault evidence and improve prosecution outcomes.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 668
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Bill Summary · HB 675

Legislative bill overview

HB 675 establishes a statewide rape kit testing tracking program in Maryland and creates a grant fund to support DNA testing of untested rape kits. The bill requires law enforcement agencies to track the status of sexual assault evidence kits from collection through analysis and requires reporting to a central database.

Why is this important

Thousands of rape kits remain untested across the country, delaying justice for survivors and potentially allowing perpetrators to remain unidentified. This legislation addresses Maryland's backlog by creating accountability measures and funding mechanisms to clear untested kits, which can lead to criminal convictions and closure for survivors.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding adequacy: The grant fund's size and whether appropriated amounts will be sufficient to address the full backlog of untested kits in Maryland
  • Implementation burden: Law enforcement agencies must establish new tracking systems and reporting procedures, which requires resources and training
  • Privacy and data security: Centralized tracking of rape kit data raises questions about information security, access controls, and protection of survivors' sensitive information

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

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