DNA Extraction Expansion

Intro: A Missouri bill that would require DNA samples of some arrested advanced today, causing some Democrats to question how far the government will go.

Lauren Stenzel has more from Jefferson City.

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Republican Representative Marilyn Ruestman sponsored a bill that would require those arrested for burglary and violent or sexual felonies to give DNA samples.

Many democrats opposed this bill, saying more should be known about DNA before implementing it into law.

Democratic Representative Jonas Hughes argued with Ruestman about this view.

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Description: "Could you help me? What does DNA stand for? Well, it's Deoxyribonucleic acid, and you think we would know these things."

"But I'm not a scientist."

"Well I'm not a scientist either, but I'm familiar with the technology when I'm researching things. And I think that we have to be understanding and have a clear understanding of what we're doing before we force it into government."

Hughes went on to discuss his fear that someday family members may be implicated by DNA association.

From the State Capitol, I'm Lauren Stenzel.

Intro: The Missouri House advanced a bill that would require DNA samples of those suspected of violent and sexual felonies.

Lauren Stenzel has more from Jefferson City.

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The sponsor of the bill, Republican Representative Marilyn Ruestman, hopes this bill will help identify sexual predators.

When democrats voiced concern over civil liberties, Ruestman gave her opinion.

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Description: :"Your identity is exposed when you're arrested, fingerprinted, and mug shot. And it goes out, who knows."

Reustman said the DNA samples could be used to prove innocence, along with guilt.

Democratic Representative Jonas Hughes disagreed that everyone arrested should have a DNA sample taken.

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Description: "Exoneration means you're completely expunged from the system, we're sorry, bye bye. But, we're keeping a piece of everyone now, we're collecting. You're helping build big brother."

The bill was approved in a first-round voice vote.

From the State Capitol, I'm Lauren Stenzel.