| Vote Recommendation | Economic Freedom | Property Rights | Personal Responsibility | Limited Government | Individual Liberty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yes | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral | Positive | Positive |
Relating to postconviction forensic DNA testing.
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
HB 217 would include DNA test results that indicate a match between an unidentified DNA profile on the evidence and another person's DNA profile in a database under the term "exculpatory results" in the context of post-conviction DNA testing. Exculpatory evidence is evidence favorable to the defendant in a criminal trial that exonerates or tends to exonerate the defendant of guilt.
Texas Action supports HB 217 because it would advance individual liberty and limited government. Clarifying that a DNA match to a person other than the defendant is considered exculpatory creates a crucial avenue for a court to overturn wrongful convictions. HB 217 would expand the opportunity of those wrongfully convicted to have their names cleared through post-conviction DNA testing.