Plain English Breakdown
The effective date is listed as empty in the metadata; only the chaptering date (July 16, 2026) is known.
AB-2018: Expanding DNA Testing for Missing Persons
This law requires the state's DNA database to be used for all unidentified persons, whether living or dead, and changes rules about keeping DNA samples from family members in specific cases.
What This Bill Does
- Requires the Department of Justice to use its DNA database for every case involving an unidentified person who is alive or deceased.
- Removes provisions relating to reporting high-risk missing persons that were previously required.
- Allows officials to keep DNA samples from living people if human remains are incomplete and there is a reasonable expectation more will be found later.
Who It Names or Affects
- The California Department of Justice
- Local government agencies or the State of California that issue death certificates
- Families providing DNA samples for missing person cases
Terms To Know
- DNA database
- A system developed by the Department of Justice to store genetic information from unidentified persons and potential sources for comparison.
- Unidentified person
- An individual, whether living or deceased, whose identity has not been established in a reported case.
Limits and Unknowns
- The official text does not state the specific date when this law takes effect.
- The bill makes conforming changes to other laws but does not list every small change made.