A Senate committee decided to get tough on crime Wednesday, adopting a Republican bill that expands DNA testing on convicted felons.

House Bill 1343, by Sen. Shawn Mitchell, R-Broomfield, and Rep. Steve King, R-Grand Junction, adds DNA testing requirements on felons and juveniles who are on parole or probation. Current law dictates that such testing is only required for adults behind bars.

“This bill taps one of the most powerful tools we have to convict the guilty and protect the innocent,” said Mitchell. “I’ve been proud to sponsor DNA testing of prisoners in the past, and with this bill, we close the loop and test all convicted felons.” 

HB 1343 passed in the Senate Judiciary Committee by a unanimous vote and is headed to the Appropriations Committee for further debate. The measure already passed the House by a count of 58-4.

If signed into law, the scope of DNA testing would include juveniles who are adjudicated for an offense that would constitute a felony if committed by an adult.

HB 1343 is written to go into effect on July 1. It would also provide law officers an opportunity to solve future crimes by repeat offenders, Mitchell said.