× Thanks for reading! Log in to continue. Enjoy more articles by logging in or creating a free account. No credit card required. Log in Sign up {{featured_button_text}}

OKLAHOMA CITY — People arrested for felony crimes would have their DNA collected under a measure moving through the Legislature.

The measure passed the Senate Public Safety Committee last week by a vote of 7-1. It heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee for consideration. If approved, it would go to the Senate floor.

The authors of the measure, House Bill 2275, are Rep. Lee Denney, R-Cushing, and Sen. Clark Jolley, R-Edmond.

Denney said it is the fourth time she has carried the measure.

Meeting with families and victims of unsolved crimes prompted her to run the bill. She said the state ought to be using the technology to solve crimes.

“I think solving these crimes is for the greater good of Oklahoma citizens, so people are not out there continuing to perpetrate crimes against our citizens,” Denney said.

In addition, it could help solve cold cases, giving victims and their families some closure, Denney said.

“Not only does DNA convict, it also exonerates,” Denney said.

Jolley said he voted against the measure in the past, but has reconsidered his position and is supporting it.