Raised Bill No. 7259 proposes significant revisions to various statutes related to criminal justice, set to take effect on October 1, 2025. Key changes include the responsibilities of the Division of Scientific Services regarding DNA analysis, stipulating that DNA profiles will only be confirmed or disseminated if there is a satisfactory match with a requestor's sample. The bill also mandates that information from nonqualifying samples be disclosed to the conviction integrity unit for potential exculpatory evidence before being purged from the database. Additionally, it revises protocols for collecting sexual assault evidence, allowing victims to choose how their evidence is labeled and ensuring timely analysis. The bill introduces new provisions for juror compensation, ensuring part-time or unemployed jurors receive a flat fee equivalent to the minimum wage for the first five days of service, along with reimbursement for necessary out-of-pocket expenses.

Further amendments include changes to the treatment of individuals in the criminal justice system, such as allowing those extradited from another state to earn sentence reductions for time spent in confinement due to extradition demands. The bill expands eligibility for a supervised diversionary program for individuals with psychiatric disabilities or autism spectrum disorders, requiring collaboration among various departments to ensure appropriate treatment. It also establishes a database to track individuals in the diversionary program and introduces penalties for allowing individuals under twenty-one to engage in online gaming activities. Overall, Raised Bill No. 7259 aims to enhance the efficiency and integrity of the criminal justice process while providing protections and support for victims and individuals with disabilities.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 51-247, 54-56l, 30-113, 14-223