HB 2805 - DIGEST
(SUBSTITUTED FOR - SEE 2ND SUB)

Declares an intent to build upon the research and findings of the Washington state missing persons task force, assembled by the state attorney general in 2003, the United States department of justice, and others to aid in recovery of missing persons and the identification of human remains.

Requires the Washington association of sheriffs and police chiefs, in consultation with the Washington association of county officials, the Washington association of coroners and medical examiners, the forensic investigations council, the Washington state patrol, and other interested agencies and individuals, to convene a committee to coordinate the use of the latest technology and available science to improve reporting of missing persons, to improve the communication within the state and with national data bases, to enhance the dissemination of information to other agencies and the public, and to improve reporting for missing persons and the collection and preservation of evidence.

Provides that protocols for the investigation of reported missing persons, identification of human remains, and recommended protocols for the reporting and identification of persons missing as the result of major events not limited to tsunami, earthquake, or acts of terrorism shall be endorsed by the groups named in this act who shall then seek the voluntary adoption of the same by all local law enforcement agencies, coroners, medical examiners, and others charged with locating missing persons or identifying human remains.

Provides that any biological sample taken from a known missing person under RCW 68.50.320 shall be forwarded to the federal bureau of investigation within seventy-two hours upon receipt of the DNA samples. The crime laboratory of the state patrol will conduct nuclear DNA testing of the biological sample and, in the event additional testing is required, the mitochondrial DNA testing will be conducted through the federal bureau of investigation, as long as it is available on a timely basis and delays do not further endanger the missing person involved. If substantial delays in testing occur or federal testing is no longer available, the legislature should provide funding to implement mitochondrial technology in the state of Washington.

Requires the department of health to maintain PKU tests of infants for DNA testing in the event the infant requires identification at a later date. There shall be a repository in every county where voluntary DNA swabs are maintained.

Directs the department to establish rules governing disclosure of test materials solely for the purpose of identification of a missing person or identification of human remains and to prohibit their use for any other purpose.

Provides that the act shall be null and void if appropriations are not approved.