Senate takes up "Katie's law" proposal

PROVIDENCE, RI (WPRI) - The Rhode Island Senate Judiciary Committee is taking up a proposal that would require DNA collection from accused criminals.

"Katie's Law" is named after Katie Sepich, a 22-year-old graduate student who was brutally raped, murdered and set on fire in 2003.

The suspect in her murder was arrested three years later, but a DNA sample from previous arrests would have identified him immediately.

The proposed bill requires every person arrested for a felony have a DNA sample taken.

Katie's parents are advocating every state to make this change.

Her mother has visited the state before to convince lawmakers the bill needs to move forward for a vote.

Only 24 states have enacted Katie's Law.

Currently, Rhode Island only takes DNA samples from convicted felons.

The ACLU fought against the bill, saying it's ineffective and violates civil liberties.