This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to clarify the circumstances under which DNA records may be utilized by law enforcement and governmental agencies. Specifically, it allows for the use of DNA samples to resolve paternity issues in pending abuse and neglect cases, provided there is a Circuit Court Order. The bill introduces a new provision that states DNA records may be used for "specific individuals pursuant to a Circuit Court Order to resolve paternity in a pending abuse and neglect case," while also removing the previous language that allowed for the use of DNA records solely for the identification of unidentified human remains, missing persons, and their relatives.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the West Virginia State Police regarding the handling of DNA samples, including their storage, analysis, and the conditions under which they may be shared with other agencies. It emphasizes that DNA records can only be used for law enforcement identification purposes, judicial proceedings, and research when personal identifying information is removed. The Superintendent of the West Virginia State Police is tasked with creating rules to govern the access and use of the state DNA database in compliance with both state and federal laws.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-2B-10