The FBI takes an active role in assuring the quality of the results in the database. For example, the DNA Identification Act of 1994 established a DNA Advisory Board (DAB) to develop and revise the recommended standards for quality assurance. The DAB fulfilled its mission by recommending two quality assurance documents to the Director of the FBI, resulting in the issuance of the Standards for Forensic DNA Testing Labs and Standards for Convicted Offender labs.

Standards for Forensic DNA Testing Laboratories

Preface

Throughout its deliberation concerning these quality standards, the DNA Advisory Board recognized the need for a mechanism to ensure compliance with the standards. An underlying premise for these discussions was that accreditation would be required to demonstrate compliance with the standards and therefore assure quality control and a quality program. Accordingly, the Board recommends that forensic laboratories performing DNA analysis seek such accreditation with all deliberate speed. Additionally, the Board strongly encourages the accrediting bodies to begin positioning themselves to accommodate the increasing demand for accreditation.

Proposed Mechanism to Recommend Changes to Standards

Once the Director of the FBI has issued standards for quality assurance for forensic DNA testing, the DNA Advisory Board may recommend revisions to such standards to the FBI Director, as necessary. In the event that the duration of the DNA Advisory Board is extended beyond March 10, 2000 by the FBI Director, the Board may continue to recommend revisions to such standards to the FBI Director. In the event that the DNA Advisory Board is not extended by the FBI Director after March 10, 2000, the Technical Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods [TWGDAM] may recommend revisions to such standards to the FBI Director, as necessary.

Effective Date

These standards shall take effect October 1, 1998.