California expands DNA database to aid identification of missing persons

A new California law broadens the state’s DNA program, allowing it to match DNA from living missing individuals as well as the deceased, aiming to speed up investigations.

In mid-July, Governor Gavin Newsom approved a law that loosens the rules governing California’s Missing Persons DNA Program, permitting the database to identify both living and deceased unidentified individuals. Previously limited to deceased cases, the expanded use is intended to reduce the workload on local agencies and provide faster answers for families. Attorney General Rob Bonta explained that the program supports coroners, medical examiners and police throughout the state.

Assemblymember James Ramos, the bill’s sponsor, said the measure equips law enforcement with essential tools and lessens the emotional toll on relatives. The legislation also mandates longer storage of DNA samples, allowing them to be retained for possible future familial matches, such as in the long-running disappearance of Rebecca Arellanosa since 2001. Northern California groups, including the Calaveras Cold Case Task Force, are already leveraging advanced DNA technology to revisit cold cases under the new framework.