The Senate Committee on Criminal Justice convened on April 29, 2025, to discuss significant advancements in DNA collection practices aimed at enhancing public safety and expediting justice. Central to the meeting was the introduction of Senate Bill 1723, which proposes a Rapid DNA pilot program to be implemented in two counties, as selected by the Department of Public Safety (DPS).

Senator Brandon Creighton highlighted the success of previous legislation mandating DNA collection from arrestees charged with felony offenses, which has reportedly solved over 1,000 cold cases. He emphasized the need for the Rapid DNA program to address the growing backlog in forensic labs, which has delayed justice for many victims. The proposed technology allows for DNA analysis from a simple cheek swab to be completed in 90 to 120 minutes, significantly faster than the current processing times that can take days or weeks.

Chief Brady Mills from the DPS crime lab provided insights into the operational aspects of the Rapid DNA program, explaining that it would not replace existing lab processes but rather augment them. The program aims to streamline the identification of potential repeat offenders while ensuring that the integrity of evidence collection remains intact. Mills noted that the technology has been successfully implemented in other states, such as Florida and Louisiana.

During the meeting, various stakeholders, including District Attorney Cheryl Leek and Ashley Spence from the DNA Justice Project, provided testimony in support of the bill. Spence shared her personal experience as a victim of a violent crime, underscoring the importance of timely DNA analysis in preventing further offenses and ensuring justice for victims. She pointed out that the rapid testing could help law enforcement make informed decisions regarding bail and bond, thereby enhancing community safety.

Committee members raised questions about the costs associated with the pilot program, which is estimated at $6 million for the initial implementation in two counties. Concerns were also expressed regarding the potential for human error in the testing process, but Mills assured that safeguards would be in place to prevent wrongful accusations.

The committee concluded the meeting with a strong sense of urgency regarding the implementation of the Rapid DNA program, recognizing its potential to transform the criminal justice landscape in Texas. The next steps involve further discussions on funding and the selection of counties for the pilot program, with the aim of expediting justice and improving public safety across the state.