July 3, 1998
Enacted G.L. Chapter 12-1.5, 'DNA Detection of Sexual and Violent Offenders,' establishing a CODIS-compatible state DNA database and databank (administered by the Department of Health) and requiring DNA samples from adults convicted of, or sentenced to probation for, enumerated sexual assault, child molestation, and homicide offenses; prisoners may not be released before their maximum term until sampled, and non-custodial sentences must include sampling as a condition. Restricted samples and records to law-enforcement and humanitarian identification uses, made them confidential with penalties for unauthorized disclosure or tampering, and provided expungement on reversal of conviction. P.L. 1998, ch. 120. Enacted July 3, 1998.