S. 1890Passed one chamberCrime & justice
Bill named for Carla Walker funds DNA tech to solve cold cases
Data as of July 16, 2026
S 1890 creates two federal grant programs for advanced DNA testing in cold cases, funded at $5 million each yearly through 2029.50-second read · 5 questions answered below
Decoded
What does this do?
S 1890 establishes two federal grant programs run by the U.S. Attorney General: one funds forensic genetic genealogy testing when standard DNA database searches fail, and the other helps labs buy equipment for such testing. Grant recipients must follow existing Justice Department guidelines, keep records, and report on outcomes including identifications or arrests.
Who does it affect?
The bill affects state, local, and tribal police, prosecutors, medical examiners, and coroners investigating unsolved crimes or unidentified remains. It could also affect crime victims' families and communities with cold cases.
Why does it matter?
The programs are meant to help identify suspects, victims, and unknown remains in cases where standard DNA testing has not produced results. Recipients face reporting requirements, and Congress will receive an evaluation after two years.
What does it cost, and who pays?
- $5 million per year, per program
- About $10 million per year total
- Funded fiscal years 2025-2029
Where does it stand?
- Introduced
- Senate committee
- Senate vote
- House — You are here
- President's desk
Right now: it passed the Senate and now goes to the House. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the President.
AI-drafted summary. Verify it against the official text before you act on it.
Three steps: where you stand, your script, the call.
Make the callSee how a call works
Official title
Carla Walker Act
- Introduced:
- May 22, 2025
- Latest action:
- June 15, 2026
Held at the desk.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Three steps: where you stand, your script, the call.