Problem statements/purpose: the opioid epidemic and sexual assault kits continue to burden forensic laboratories with increased case submissions in all disciplines

Equipment purchases are needed to meet the demand of increasing case submissions that is not possible with current budgets. Professional development for employees is essential in forensic science. Technologies, methods, standards, and guidelines are constantly changing in the forensic community. These changes often are directly correlated to improved quality and efficiencies. Most forensic laboratories do not have funding to provide professional development for all employees. Project strategy/primary activities: there are three primary activities to tackle the problems stated above. 1. Upgrade current medical examiner dictation hardware/software, 2. Provide equipment in the physical evidence section to meet the needs of increasing case submissions, and 3. Provide professional development opportunities to forensic scientistsand medical examiners. Anticipated outcomes: 1. There will be improved efficiencies in the production of autopsy reports in the medical examiner section. 2. There will be improved efficiencies and quality in the physical evidence section. 3. Attendees atnational/regional meetings and training seminars will enhance quality and/or timeliness improvements that can be implemented at the ascl which will decrease turnaround times and the backlog. Service area: state of arkansas (75 counties)