(a) Receipt of DNA samples by State Police.--It shall be the duty of the State Police to:

(1) Receive and store DNA samples, to perform forensic DNA testing or to contract for testing with an accredited forensic DNA laboratory that meets the rules, regulations and guidelines under section 2318 (relating to procedures for conduct, disposition and use of DNA analysis) as established by the State Police.

(2) Store forensic DNA records from DNA samples submitted under the former DNA Act, former provisions of 42 Pa.C.S. Ch. 47 (relating to DNA data and testing) or this chapter and to make such information available as provided in this section.

(a.1) Contracts.--The State Police may contract for DNA testing to an accredited forensic DNA laboratory that meets the rules, regulations and guidelines as established by the State Police under section 2318. DNA records in the State DNA Data Base shall be made available:

(1) to criminal justice agencies or CODIS-participating DNA laboratories which serve these agencies; or

(2) upon written or electronic request and in furtherance of an official investigation of a criminal offense or offender or suspected offender.

(b) Methods of obtaining information.--The State Police shall promulgate, as necessary, rules, regulations and guidelines governing the methods of obtaining information from the State DNA Data Base and CODIS and procedures for verification of the identity and authority of the requester.

(c) Population data base.--

(1) The State Police may establish a separate population data base comprised of forensic DNA profiles obtained under this chapter after all personal identification is removed.

(2) The State Police may share or disseminate the population data base with other criminal justice agencies or CODIS-participating DNA laboratories that serve to assist the State Police with statistical data bases.

(3) The population data base may be made available to and searched by other agencies participating in the CODIS system.

(Oct. 24, 2018, P.L.896, No.147, eff. 360 days)

Cross References. Section 2319 is referred to in section 2318 of this title.