House Bill 473 amends Tennessee law regarding the collection of DNA samples from individuals arrested for felony offenses. Starting July 1, 2025, individuals arrested for such offenses will be required to provide a biological specimen for DNA analysis using a buccal swab collection kit. This sample must be taken by the arresting authority after a magistrate or grand jury has determined probable cause for the arrest, and it must be forwarded to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI). The collection of the specimen will be a condition of the person's release on bond or recognizance if granted.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the clerk of the court notify the TBI of the final disposition of the criminal proceedings. If the charges are dismissed or the defendant is acquitted, the TBI is required to destroy the DNA sample and all related records, unless there is another pending warrant or felony conviction that necessitates the sample's retention in the database. This legislation aims to enhance the identification process in criminal cases while ensuring the protection of individuals' rights in the event of acquittal or dismissal of charges.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 40-35-321