Proposed House Bill 1275

Colorado lawmakers have introduced a bipartisan proposal aimed at tackling the fallout from the misconduct of former Colorado Bureau of Investigation forensic scientist Yvonne “Missy” Woods. The CBI has found that Woods manipulated tests results in hundreds of cases.

 

The proposed House Bill 1275 seeks to bring transparency and accountability to the state’s DNA testing labs by not only preventing future misconduct, but also investigating past errors—specifically those stemming from Woods' actions—and ensuring that those wrongfully convicted are notified.

 

At KWIP we understand the deep harm caused when faulty forensic work leads to wrongful convictions. But this isn’t just about those who’ve been unjustly imprisoned—it’s also about the victims and their families. Missy Woods' misconduct undermines the trust in our legal system, which affects the victims seeking closure and those wrongfully convicted who still carry the weight of a crime they didn’t commit.

 

By supporting HB 1275, the “Colorado Forensic Science Integrity Act,” we’re fighting for a system that works for everyone—where the innocent are exonerated, and the voices of victims and their families are heard. As our staff attorney Jud Lohnes says, "When an innocent person is convicted, we all lose."

 

It’s time to rebuild trust, stand up for those who’ve been silenced and fight for a legal system that works for everyone.