BILL · 2025–26 SESSION

SB 5934: Postconviction DNA testing

Reducing litigation costs by removing barriers to postconviction DNA testing.

Summary

Creates a presumption that a motion for DNA testing must be granted unless the state can show by clear and convincing evidence that the DNA evidence could not demonstrate a likelihood of innocence.
Provides a convicted person with a right to discovery when a motion is granted for DNA testing.
Allows DNA testing to be contracted by the Washington State Patrol Crime Laboratory.
Requires the Washington State Patrol Crime Laboratory to consult with the parties on the sequence for transferring and testing the evidence.

From the Senate Bill Report (SB 5934), written by the Legislature's nonpartisan staff. Read the full report ↗

Did not pass Did not pass · died in committee

AN ACT Relating to reducing litigation costs by removing barriers to postconviction DNA testing;

No recorded floor votes. This measure never reached a floor vote.

Bill numbers restart every two years, so the same number is a different bill in each session.

SB 5934 (2023–24) Pollinator habitat · Enacted · Chapter 337, Laws of 2024
SB 5934 (2021–22) Third WA-OR bridge study · Did not pass · died in committee
SB 5934 (2019–20) K-12 school construction · Did not pass · died in committee
SB 5934 (2017–18) Convicted persons · Did not pass · passed Senate, stalled in House
SB 5934 (2015–16) Innovation & jobs task force · Did not pass · stalled on the Senate floor
SB 5934 (2013–14) Pharmacy referral process · Did not pass · died in committee
SB 5934 (2011–12) Water rights permits · Did not pass · died in committee
SB 5934 (2009–10) Vehicle impoundment · Did not pass · stalled on the Senate floor