Bill Would Give Prison Inmate More Time to Request DNA Tests

Michigan’s prison inmates would have more time to petition the courts for DNA testing in their cases, under a bill headed to the state House.

The measure would repeal the sunset date on post-conviction testing of DNA, which is currently set to expire the beginning of next year.

State Senator Steve Bieda says, since he’s been in office, lawmakers have extended that expiration date three times.

He says it’s ridiculous to keep sunsetting the bill and having to reauthorize it.

Bieda says there have been significant advancements in DNA testing over the years, so it makes sense to keep the program going.

Only Michigan and Louisiana have a sunset on the law.

The bill already passed the Senate.