“This budget greatly supports state police efforts to carry out its mission and responsibilities of safeguarding lives and property of the citizens of our state,” Governor Ryan said. “I am especially pleased to include $1.5 million to hire additional scientists and laboratory personnel to address evidence processing backlogs in the state police forensic lab system, especially in DNA testing. My proposed budget recognizes the important link between overall public safety and timely access to the latest technical advances in forensic science. ”
 

Highlights of the FY02 budget also include funds for the continuation of the Illinois Wireless Information Network which provides Troopers in squad cars with immediate and critical on-line information from the Law Enforcement Agency Data System (LEADS). Additionally, funds are also requested for costs relating to Public Act 91-828 which increases the number of offenses requiring DNA samples. Under the budget, funds currently appropriated to the Department of Public Health for alcohol and substance testing programs would be transferred to the ISP due to recent legislation transferring those responsibilities to the Agency.
 

“This budget addresses challenges facing the Agency in the areas of forensics, patrol, and criminal justice information services,” said Sam W. Nolen, ISP Director. “It is good news for criminal justice and crime fighting efforts in Illinois.”