Rio de Janeiro Enacts Law to Create State DNA Database for Criminal Investigations and Missing-Person Identification

Overview

• The law was sanctioned on March 20 by Governor Cláudio Castro after approval by the state assembly and publication in the Official Gazette.
• Genetic profiles may be added after final convictions for heinous or violent crimes, by court order, or through voluntary donations from relatives of missing persons.
• Access to the database is restricted and profiles disclose only genetic information and biological sex, with a designated officer responsible for data protection compliance.
• Records can be erased in cases such as acquittal, forensic error, extinction of punishment, or expiration of the legal term, and data subjects may request deletion or correction.
• The system will follow Ministry of Justice protocols, integrate with the national DNA network, allow partnerships with universities and research institutions, and undergo periodic audits.