HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 29

(By Delegates Perdue, R. Thompson and Kominar)

[Introduced February 19, 2002; referred to the

Committee on Rules.]


Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance to conduct a study on the need to create a West Virginia forensic science task force.

Whereas, The State has a serious shortage of specialists in certain forensic science fields; and
Whereas, The lack of forensic science specialists seriously effects the State's ability to address emergency situations; and
Whereas, An improvement in the State's forensic science capabilities would enhance the ability of law enforcement to detect crimes and prosecute criminals; and
Whereas, There is a need to coordinate efforts to enhance laboratory accreditation, training of specialists and sharing of equipment among forensic organizations in the state; and
Whereas, Future federal funding to crime laboratories may require the establishment of a statewide plan for organizing forensic science capabilities; therefore, be it
Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:
That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby requested to study the need to create a forensic science task force, with access to specialists in all forensic fields in order to address emergencies and disasters and to meet the needs of the law-enforcement community; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the Legislature during the regular session of the Legislature 2003, on its findings, conclusions and recommendations, together with drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendation; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this study, to prepare a report, and to draft necessary legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government Operations.