DNA samples from patients in prison?

Next Wednesday, April 6 the New Hampshire House of Representatives will vote on a bill to require DNA samples from some civilly committed individuals with mental illness.

The Senate already passed the bill, SB 339.

Supporters of the bill argue that it closes a loophole that exempts offenders found not guilty by reason of insanity from the requirement to provide DNA to law enforcement.

Speaking in favor of the bill, Rep. Len Disesa wrote, “given the substantial recidivism rate of persons who are found not guilty by reason of insanity for serious crimes, this bill would serve both as a deterrent and a useful investigative tool for unsolved crimes.”

Bill opponents argue that the language goes too far, including individuals with mental illness who have not committed any crimes but who are housed in the Department of Corrections Secure Psychiatric Unit because they pose a threat to themselves or others.

“Notwithstanding the current practice of the state comingling people civilly committed with those who have been convicted of crimes in the Secure Psychiatric Unit, the legislature should not require those who have never been accused of or committed a crime to submit to have a DNA sample be taken,” wrote Rep. Renny Cushing.

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