A bill for an act relating to investigative procedure, including the preservation of biological evidence collected in relation to a criminal investigation, testimony by an incarcerated witness, and postconviction access to investigative files in a criminal case.

This bill (HSB 36) requires Iowa law enforcement and criminal justice agencies to preserve biological evidence (like DNA from crime scenes) for specific periods: 20 years after a conviction or until a defendant is released from custody, whichever is longer. It also mandates that prosecutors disclose 90 days before trial if they plan to use testimony from incarcerated witnesses (e.g., inmates offering statements in exchange for benefits like reduced sentences), and prohibits using such testimony obtained through improper rewards. The law applies directly to defendants, prosecutors, and agencies handling criminal investigations, ensuring evidence is stored properly and witness testimony transparency is maintained. Key mechanisms include strict retention timelines, mandatory documentation, and advance notice requirements before destroying evidence or using incarcerated witnesses.