USA - Texas. Mandatory DNA testing bill advances

Mandatory DNA testing bill advances. Senate Bill 1292 requiring the state pay for all biological evidence to be collected and DNA tested prior to a trial in cases where the defendant could receive the death penalty passed the Senate Criminal Justice Committee in a unanimous vote. "This modest but vitally important reform will help reduce the possibility that the ultimate mistake is made with someone receiving the ultimate penalty," said Houston Democrat Sen. Rodney Ellis, who partnered with Attorney General Greg Abbott to write the legislation.