Responsive, Accountable Local Government Grant Program

The solicitation described is a funding opportunity provided by the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) to states and units of local government with existing crime laboratories that conduct DNA analysis. The core objective of this grant program is to maximize the effective utilization of DNA technology to process DNA samples for entry into the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS). This initiative aligns directly with the mission of the Office of Justice Programs (OJP), which is committed to advancing work that promotes civil rights and racial equity, increases access to justice, supports crime victims, strengthens community safety, protects the public from crime and evolving threats, and builds trust between law enforcement and the community. The target beneficiaries of this funding are the existing crime laboratories operated by state and local governments, as well as the communities and public safety entities they serve. The overarching impact goal is to solve crimes and protect public safety through the enhanced processing and utilization of DNA evidence. By ensuring effective utilization of DNA technology, the program aims to strengthen the justice system's ability to identify perpetrators, exonerate the innocent, and provide resolution for victims. The primary focus and priority of this solicitation is the practical application of DNA technology to process samples for entry into CODIS. The BJA seeks to support laboratories in efficiently handling DNA evidence to maximize its value in criminal investigations. This focus directly supports OJP’s strategic priority of strengthening community safety and protecting the public from crime and evolving threats. The theory of change underpinning this funding is that increasing the capacity and efficiency of crime labs in DNA processing directly leads to a reduction in unsolved crimes, thereby enhancing public safety and trust in the justice system. Expected outcomes of this grant program include an increased rate of DNA sample processing, a larger volume of usable DNA profiles entered into CODIS, and ultimately, a greater number of crimes solved through the use of DNA technology. These measurable results contribute to OJP’s broader commitment to increasing access to justice and supporting individuals impacted by the justice system. The successful execution of this program is intended to be a tangible step toward achieving OJP's mission of building trust between law enforcement and the community through effective, technology-driven justice administration.