2023 New Jersey Statutes 53:1-20.18. Findings, declarations regarding DNA databases
The Legislature further finds and declares that the minimal intrusion on an individual’s privacy interest resulting from a DNA test is justified by the compelling governmental interests advanced by DNA analysis, for those who are convicted, adjudicated or found not guilty by reason of insanity for crimes or specified disorderly persons offenses, as well as for those who are arrested for certain violent crimes. It further finds that DNA testing enhances the State’s ability to positively identify an offender, to ascertain whether an individual may be implicated in another offense, and to establish positive identification in the event the offender becomes a fugitive.
The Legislature finds, as did the Supreme Court of New Jersey, that there is a compelling parallel between the taking of DNA and fingerprinting, and that the purposes of DNA testing demonstrate “special needs” beyond ordinary law enforcement.
L.1994, c.136, s.2; amended 1997, c.341, s.1; 2003, c.183, s.1; 2011, c.104, s.1; 2015, c.263, s.1.