On Monday, March 19, Governor Cuomo signed into law historic legislation to bring into effect the New York State DNA Databank. I am proud to be a co-sponsor of the legislation and announce that it is now law.
This legislation makes New York State the first in the nation to require DNA to be collected from all convicted felons as well as those who commit certain misdemeanors, making sure that we are leading the way in state-of-the-art technology.
Today, DNA is the new fingerprints. It is what crime labs and prosecutors across the world are using to identify criminals accurately and swiftly. It is more accurate, reliable, and fits with the times.
The other advantage to this DNA databank is that it can aid in the process of exonerating the innocent. DNA doesnt lie, and this databank will help to make sure that only the guilty, and not the innocent, are punished for crimes.
The bottom line is that this law will significantly improve New York States crime-fighting abilities. Through the collection of DNA samples of all persons convicted of felony offenses and certain misdemeanors, we will help to prevent and solve crimes. By signing this bill into law, Governor Cuomo will add a critical measure of security and safety for all New Yorkers.
I was proud to co-sponsor this legislation, I was proud to vote for it, and I am extremely proud that it is now the law. By working together with police departments, district attorneys, the Assembly and the governor, we have made great strides by ensuring our communities, families, and cities are the safest in the nation.
State Senator Marty Golden represents the 22nd Senatorial District including Bay Ridge, Dyker Heights, Bensonhurst, Gravesend, Marine Park and Gerritsen Beach in Albany.
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