What does Preamble of Carla Walker Act do?

This bill establishes a grant program for certain State and local forensic activities.

What does SHORT TITLE. of Carla Walker Act do?

This Act is formally titled the Carla Walker Act.

What does GRANTS TO IMPROVE FORENSIC ACTIVITIES. of Carla Walker Act do?

This section amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to add Part PP, focusing on grants to improve forensic activities. It defines key terms including 'accredited forensic laboratory,' 'FGG DNA analysis and searching,' 'forensic analysis,' and 'genetic genealogy service.' The Attorney General may award competitive grants to eligible entities, such as states, law enforcement agencies, and medical examiner's offices. Grants can be used to conduct whole genome sequencing and search genealogical databases. Eligible entities must upload forensic profiles to the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) before using forensic genetic genealogy (FGG) DNA analysis and searching. Law enforcement agencies are restricted from arresting suspects solely based on genetic associations from genetic genealogy services. The Attorney General must promulgate regulations within one year to guide the use of FGG DNA analysis and searching. A total of $5,000,000 is authorized for appropriation for each of fiscal years 2027 through 2031.

What does DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE REPORT. of Carla Walker Act do?

This section requires the Attorney General to submit a report to Congress within three years of the Act's enactment. The report must cover awards and practices reported under section 3065 of title I of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 (as amended by this Act). The report must also address forensic genetic genealogy analysis technologies and best practices for implementation by eligible entities. The report should include recommendations regarding expected funding needs. The report should also include recommendations on whether regulations are needed for the use of forensic genetic genealogy analysis technology.

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Carla Walker Act

Last updated: 6/15/2026 · Introduced: 5/22/2025

Author: John Cornyn (R-TX)

TL;DR (AI)

The Carla Walker Act establishes a grant program providing up to $5 million annually through 2029 to state and local entities for forensic activities, including whole genome sequencing and genetic genealogy DNA analysis.
Eligible grant recipients must maintain detailed records of grant usage, testing performed, and identification outcomes, and allow audits by the Attorney General.
The Attorney General must report to Congress within two years on the use of forensic genetic genealogy technologies, including best practices, funding needs, and regulatory recommendations.

119th Congresspassed senateOfficial page

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Other Sections

Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 2 more.

4 sections

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