Vermont § 1938 - Storage and use of samples and records

Full text of Vermont Vermont Statutes Online § 1938 — Storage and use of samples and records, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 1938. Storage and use of samples and records

  • (a) A DNA sample and a DNA record obtained pursuant to this subchapter shall be used only
    for the purposes authorized in this subchapter and may be provided to law enforcement
    agencies for lawful law enforcement purposes. (b) The tissue, fluid, or other substance from which the DNA is extracted shall be used
    only for DNA sample analysis authorized in this subchapter and may be provided to
    law enforcement agencies only for DNA sample analysis for use in any investigation
    and prosecution. (c) Only DNA samples shall be stored in the State DNA data bank. (d) Only DNA records derived from DNA samples shall be stored in the State DNA database. (e) Except as provided in section 1939 of this chapter, no DNA records derived from DNA
    samples shall be aggregated or stored in any database, other than CODIS and the State
    DNA database, that is accessible by any person other than by the Department for the
    purpose for which the samples were collected. (f)(1) Except for forensic unknown samples, no samples of tissue, fluid, or other biological
    substance voluntarily submitted or obtained by the execution of a nontestimonial identification
    order shall be entered into the State DNA data bank. However, such samples may be
    used for any other purpose authorized in section 1937 of this subchapter. (2) Notwithstanding the prohibition of subdivision (1) of this subsection, any sample
    that may lead to an exculpatory result shall be used only for the purpose of the criminal
    investigation and related criminal prosecution for which the samples were obtained.
    Upon the conclusion of the criminal investigation and finalization of any related
    criminal prosecution, such samples shall be placed under seal, and shall not be used
    for any purpose whatsoever, except pursuant to a judicial order for good cause shown. (3) Notwithstanding the prohibition of subdivision (1) of this subsection, any sample
    that may lead to an exculpatory result shall be used only for the purpose of the criminal
    investigation and related criminal prosecution for which the samples were obtained.
    Upon the conclusion of the criminal investigation and finalization of any related
    criminal prosecution, the genetic records shall be placed under seal, and shall not
    be used for any purpose whatsoever, except pursuant to a judicial order for good cause
    shown. (g) Except for records obtained from forensic unknown samples, no DNA records of samples
    of tissue, fluid, or other biological substance that were obtained as the result of
    either consensual submission of biological evidence or the execution of a nontestimonial
    identification order shall be entered into the State DNA database. (Added 1997, No. 160 (Adj. Sess.), § 1, eff. April 29, 1998.)

Source: official Vermont text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Vermont § 1938

What does Vermont Statutes Online § 1938 cover?

Section 1938 ("Storage and use of samples and records") is part of the Vermont Statutes Online, the codified statutory law of Vermont. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Vermont § 1938?

A common citation format is "Vermont Statutes Online § 1938" (Vermont). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Vermont law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Vermont official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Vermont attorney.

How does Vermont § 1938 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Vermont can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Vermont.