Carla Walker Act
The Carla Walker Act (S 5498) creates federal grants to help law enforcement and forensic labs use advanced DNA analysis for unsolved cases. It provides $5 million annually (2024-2028) for two main purposes: (1) funding whole genome sequencing to analyze evidence when standard DNA databases fail, and (2) purchasing equipment for forensic genetic genealogy. Eligible recipients include state/local police, prosecutors, medical examiners, and accredited labs. Recipients must follow DOJ’s 2019 forensic genealogy policy, report on case outcomes, and cannot use funds for staffing or travel.
Bill status
in committee
1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Dec 2024
Committee Review
Floor Vote
President
Introduced Dec 12, 2024
Last action Dec 12, 2024
Floor votes
How they voted
No floor votes recorded yet.
Full legislative history
Actions timeline
Total actions
2
Key actions
0
Committee
1
Dec 12, 2024
Committee
Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.
upper
Dec 12, 2024
Introduced
Introduced in Senate
upper
1 primary · 1 co-sponsor
Sponsors
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