Forensic Science Education for Policymakers

The goal of this project is to educate state legislators on the policy and practice issues associated with the effective use of DNA to solve crimes. The objectives are to 1) foster leadership capacity in state legislatures for review and development of policies that address effective and modern use of DNA to improve criminal justice systems and the administration of justice, 2) compile up-to-date, accurate and credible data on forensic science statutes and research to educate and inform lawmakers on other states' promising approaches and successes with DNA policies and practice, and 3) facilitate communication on forensic science issues among state policymakers, crime laboratory directors and state and national experts, including capacity, standards and funding associated with up-to-date forensic analysis. CA/NCF