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Iowa’s expanded DNA sampling bill goes to governor

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May 7th, 2013 by Ric Hanson

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) – A bill that would require people convicted of certain aggravated misdemeanors to submit DNA samples now heads to the desk of Gov. Terry Branstad  for review. The Iowa House approved the Senate’s changes to the bill Tuesday on an 84 to 15 vote. The measure would require adults convicted of crimes like aggravated misdemeanor assault and theft to submit DNA samples to the federal DNA database.  Currently, only convicted felons and sexual offenders must submit samples.

The Senate changed the initial bill last week to exempt deferred judgment cases and misdemeanors related to hazardous waste, agricultural production and gambling. Traffic offenses are also exempt unless a person has three operating while intoxicated convictions in 12 years.  The Senate passed a similar bill last year, but it died in the House.