This bill amends existing laws regarding the collection and analysis of sexual abuse evidence collection kits in Iowa. It establishes clear definitions for terms such as "DNA," "DNA profile," "forensic medical examination," and "kit," while also introducing new terms like "national DNA index system" and "state DNA index system." The bill mandates that health care providers must notify the relevant law enforcement agency within 24 hours of collecting evidence from a victim, and law enforcement must collect the kit within three days. Additionally, the bill extends the storage requirement for kits to a minimum of 50 years, even if no criminal complaint has been filed.
Furthermore, the bill outlines the responsibilities of law enforcement and laboratories in the processing of these kits. Law enforcement agencies are required to transfer kits to laboratories for analysis within seven days, and laboratories must conduct analyses within 30 days of receipt. The bill also stipulates that if a complete DNA profile is not established, laboratories should still evaluate the evidence for any usable DNA profiling results. In cases where a DNA profile is developed, it must be entered into both the national and state DNA index systems. Lastly, provisions are made for the disposal of anonymous kits after a 50-year retention period.