Branstad Signs Bill Widening DNA Sampling to Misdemeanor Cases

DES MOINES (AP) — People convicted of certain aggravated misdemeanors in Iowa now will be required to submit DNA samples.

Gov. Terry Branstad signed into law on Wednesday afternoon a measure that expands the collection of DNA samples beyond felony convictions and sex offenses.

“It builds on the current success of our DNA program by using modern technology to help solve and prevent crimes,” Branstad said. “Law enforcement will be able to identify criminals quickly and get them off the streets sooner and convict them with greater accuracy.”

Under the law, adults convicted of such crimes as aggravated misdemeanor assault and theft will submit a DNA sample. Previously, only convicted felons and sexual offenders were required to submit samples. The new law doesn't apply to convictions that happened before its passage.

Deferred judgment cases and misdemeanors related to hazardous waste, agricultural production and gambling are exempt from the DNA requirement. Traffic offenses are also exempt unless a person has three operating while intoxicated convictions in 12 years.

Samples will be added to the federal DNA database, called the National DNA...