If passed, the la would make South Carolina's DNA collection program the most aggressive in the nation. While many states collect DNA from convicted felons and people arrested for certain offenses, South Carolina would be the only state to require a sample from anyone who is arrested, whether the offense is jaywalking or murder.

Proponents of this bill note that many criminals commit a variety of crimes, and using DNA to track them in the system helps pinpoint repeat offenders and those who might be involved in similar crimes. Proponents also note that DNA is the most effective tool in exonerating suspects.

Some say swabbing the mouths of suspects for DNA is too intrusive and that innocent people don't belong in a criminal database. But collecting DNA is no more intrusive than taking a fingerprint, and it provides a far more effective way to identify someone.

As for placing names in a database, the bill would allow people to have their DNA samples expunged from the system if they are found innocent or charges are dropped. The proposal also would make the unauthorized dissemination or possession of DNA evidence illegal.

With the proper safeguards, getting DNA samples from nearly everyone taken into custody appears to be a tool that could help catch criminals without abridging the rights of the innocent. Let South Carolina lead the way.

IN SUMMARY
A new bill would require DNA samples of everyone arrested and taken to jail.