The bill amends Sections 31-13-3 and 36-18-32 of the Code of Alabama 1975, introducing a new definition for "illegal alien" as an individual not lawfully present in the United States. It requires law enforcement agencies to collect fingerprints and DNA from any illegal alien in their custody, which must be submitted for testing or cataloging. This initiative aims to improve the tracking and management of individuals unlawfully present in the country. The bill also establishes the Alabama DNA Database Fund within the State Treasury, managed by the Director of the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences, to support the implementation of these provisions.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing laws regarding the management of the Alabama DNA Database Fund, ensuring that the director's control over the funds aligns with state laws. It increases the fee assessed in criminal cases from twelve to fifteen dollars, with a planned reduction to fourteen dollars starting in 2026. The bill emphasizes the need for accurate record-keeping of fund expenditures and prohibits any financial interests for the director or staff related to fund investments. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on June 1, 2025, aiming to enhance the operational framework of the DNA Database Fund while ensuring compliance with legal standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 31-13-3, 36-18-32
Enrolled: 31-13-3, 36-18-32