About Us
House Bill 1068 was passed during the 2005 Legislative Session. This bill amended Chapter 38, Code of Criminal Procedure by adding 38.01 Texas Forensic Science Commission ("FSC"). The bill's authors were Senator Whitmire, Senator Hinojosa and Representative Driver.
In 2007, funds for the FSC were appropriated to Sam Houston State University and were included as a line item in the University's budget. Accordingly, the University provides administrative support to the FSC and houses the FSC's office in Huntsville, TX.
The Texas Forensic Science Commission investigates complaints that allege professional negligence or misconduct by a laboratory, facility or entity that has been accredited by the Director of the Texas Department of Public Safety that would substantially affect the integrity of the results of a forensic analysis.
The term "forensic analysis" means a medical, chemical, toxicological, ballistic, or other examination or test performed on physical evidence, including DNA evidence, for the purpose of determining the connection of the evidence to a criminal action. The term does not include: latent fingerprint examinations; a breath test specimen or the portion of an autopsy conducted by a medical examiner or licensed physician. A link to the statute in the Texas Administrative Code further naming those excluded forensic disciplines is provided here.
Policies and Procedures
The Texas Forensic Science Commission has adopted the following Policies and Procedures:
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Meeting Date |
Meeting Location |
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Original |
Harlingen,TX |
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Amended |
Irving, TX |
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Amended |
Houston, TX |
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Amended |
Austin,TX |
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Amended |
Austin, TX |
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Amended |
Austin, TX |
Accredited Labs
The Texas Forensic Science Commission only investigates forensic analyses that take place through an accredited lab, facility or entity as follows:
DPS Accredited Labs Within Texas
DPS Accredited Labs Outside Texas