New JerseyAdults and children arrested for certain crimes would give DNA samples
New Jersey would require adults and children arrested for covered crimes to give DNA samples before release from custody, without waiting for a conviction.
What it does
Adults and children arrested for sexual assault, criminal sexual contact, or attempts to commit either crime would have to give DNA samples before release from custody.
Adults and children arrested for listed violent crimes or covered child endangerment offenses would have to give DNA samples before release. One child endangerment offense is excluded.
Adults and children arrested for human trafficking or listed property crimes would have to give DNA samples before release from custody.
Argument forCollecting DNA before release could let investigators compare samples sooner when investigating covered crimes.
Argument againstAdults and children who are never convicted could still have to give DNA samples, which may intrude on their privacy.
More detail
People arrested for these sexual offenses would have to provide a sample for DNA testing. The rule would cover adults and children arrested for sexual assault or criminal sexual contact, including aggravated forms and attempts. Collection would not depend on a conviction. The requirement would take effect immediately if the bill becomes law.
People arrested for the covered violent crimes and crimes against children would have to provide a sample for DNA testing. Adults and children would be covered for listed crimes, including murder, kidnapping, and luring a child. Attempts to commit the listed crimes would also be covered. The child endangerment offense identified as N.J.S.2C:24-4(a)(2) would be excluded. The requirement would take effect immediately if the bill becomes law.
People arrested for human trafficking or the listed property crimes would have to provide a sample for DNA testing. The property crimes are arson, carjacking, and burglary. This includes aggravated arson, home invasion burglary, and residential burglary. The requirement would take effect immediately if the bill becomes law.
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Where it stands
- Introduced
- Passed 1st Chamber
- Passed 2nd Chamber
- To Governor
- Became Law
Looking ahead
No hearings or votes scheduled.
History
- 2026
- Oct 19Reported as an Assembly Committee Substitute and Referred to Assembly Appropriations CommitteeLatest
- Feb 19Introduced, Referred to Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness CommitteeIntroduced
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