Laboratory operations

NIJ seeks proposals from eligible States with designated DNA database laboratories for funding to assist with the costs associated with the implementation of DNA arrestee collection processes, in keeping with the purposes of the Katie Sepich Enhanced DNA Collection Act of 2012 (Public Law 112-253), thereby helping to improve the capacity of laboratories that conduct DNA analysis of DNA database samples.

NIJ seeks proposals for funding to assist in defraying the costs associated with postconviction DNA testing in cases of violent felony offenses (as defined by State law) in which actual innocence might be demonstrated. Funds may be used to identify and review such postconviction cases and to locate and analyze associated biological evidence.

The Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program (the "Coverdell program") awards grants to States and units of local government to help improve the quality and timeliness of forensic science and medical examiner services and/or to eliminate backlogs in the analysis of forensic evidence, including controlled substances, firearms examination, forensic pathology, latent prints, questioned documents, toxicology, and trace evidence.