Utah House passes Sherry's Bill regulating investigative genetic genealogy use

Utah lawmakers made significant strides in the 2023 General Legislative Session, particularly with the passage of Senate Bill 156, known as "Sherry's Bill," which aims to regulate the use of investigative genetic genealogy (IGG) by law enforcement. The bill, named after Sherry Black, a murder victim whose case was solved through IGG technology, received overwhelming support, passing the House with 46 votes in favor and 22 against.

Representative Steve Eliason, the bill's sponsor, emphasized the importance of IGG in solving cold cases while ensuring privacy protections for individuals. The legislation restricts law enforcement's use of IGG to violent crimes and mandates that only individuals who have opted in can have their genetic data accessed. It also requires law enforcement to consult with a prosecutor and prohibits arrests based solely on IGG data, thereby reinforcing the need for thorough investigative practices.

Support for the bill came from various stakeholders, including the Sherry Black Foundation, Ancestry, and the Innocence Project, highlighting its dual focus on justice for victims and protection for the innocent. Law enforcement representatives voiced their backing, noting that the bill establishes necessary boundaries while providing them with a valuable tool for solving crimes.

In addition to Sherry's Bill, the session also saw the passage of Senate Bill 120, which addresses the management of evidence related to misdemeanors. This bill aims to streamline the process of documenting and disposing of evidence that is no longer needed, following a review by the Utah Supreme Court.

As these legislative measures move forward, they reflect a commitment to balancing public safety with individual rights, ensuring that advancements in technology are met with appropriate oversight and ethical considerations. The implications of these bills are expected to resonate throughout Utah's law enforcement and legal communities, paving the way for more effective and responsible crime-solving methods.