Law expanding SC’s DNA database was never funded

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — South Carolina doesn’t have the money to pay for taking DNA samples from anyone arrested for a felony, cutting down the number of samples police can check to try to crack unsolved crimes.

The Post and Courier of Charleston (http://bit.ly/oArlC7 ) reports lawmakers didn’t include a funding source in 2008 when they passed a bill expanding South Carolina’s DNA database from everyone convicted of a felony to everyone charged with a felony.

Legislators say they will try to find money for the program again, but getting $4 million for startup costs might be tough in tight budget times.

Supporters say expanding the DNA database could get more criminals off the streets before they commit additional crimes.

The law also makes DNA testing available to prisoners who claim they are wrongly convicted.