Forensic ballistic and firearms procedures.

Existing law authorizes local law enforcement agencies to have specified information related to firearms entered into the United States Department of Justice National Integrated Ballistic Information Network to ensure that representative samples of fired bullets and cartridge cases from crime scenes are recorded, as specified. This bill would require specified law enforcement agencies to obtain ballistic images from firearms and cartridge cases obtained by the agency as specified, and submit those images to the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network or a comparable automated ballistic identification system used by the agency. The bill would require those agencies that lack the capability to obtain or submit images to contract with another agency that is able to do so. The bill would also require the Department of Justice to develop a protocol for the implementation of this requirement. By requiring new duties for local agencies, this bill would create a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above.