South Carolina Senators Override Veto Of DNA Bill

Senate President Pro Tem Glenn McConnell says the bill allowing DNA samples to be taken when suspected felons are arrested will protect citizens from violent criminals. The bill also allows people already in prison to use DNA evidence to clear themselves of charges.

By: The Associated Press | WSPA-TV
Published: October 20, 2008

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COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) - The South Carolina Senate has unanimously overridden Gov. Mark Sanford's veto of a measure that would have expanded the use of genetic information in criminal cases.

The 38-0 vote on Monday came as the Legislature met in a special session to take up budget cuts.

Senate President Pro Tem Glenn McConnell says the bill allowing DNA samples to be taken when suspected felons are arrested will protect citizens from violent criminals. The bill also allows people already in prison to use DNA evidence to clear themselves of charges.

The bill now heads to the House, which can consider overriding the governor's veto on Tuesday.

Sanford nixed the measure at the end of the legislative session, calling the DNA collection an invasion of privacy.