This proposal is submitted on behalf of the state of illinois

The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA) was awarded a $760,390 Formula Grant under the U.S. Department of Justice's Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grant Program (CFDA 16.742). The grant funding aims to enhance the quality, timeliness, and capabilities of forensic science and medical examiner/coroner services in Illinois.

Specifically, the grant will enable ICJIA to purchase new analytical equipment and/or upgrades for existing equipment, maintain laboratory accreditation standards, and provide training opportunities for forensic science staff. These efforts are intended to help address case backlogs, maintain required accreditation standards, and improve the overall quality and timeliness of forensic services provided by the state's forensic science laboratories. The grant period runs from October 1, 2024 to September 30, 2026.

The illinois criminal justice information authority, the designated state administering agency (SAA), is seeking formula-based funding through the 2024 paul coverdell forensic science improvement grant. The consolidated state plan for the forensic science laboratories in illinois has focused on improving the quality, accuracy, and timeliness of forensic science services, the criminal justice system, and citizens of the state of illinois. The consolidated plan has been in effect since 2002 and the continued demand for forensic science services dictates the need for the forensic science laboratories in illinois to continue focusing their efforts and resources on improving the quality of forensic science services. Funding from previous years' national forensic sciences improvement act programs have been used to purchase new analytical equipment and/or upgrades for existing analytical equipment; to maintain laboratory accreditation standards by purchasing required external proficiency test; and to provide appropriate internal and external training opportunities to staff that assists with the end goal of improving the timeliness and quality of forensic services offered by the forensic science laboratories in illinois. The aforementioned actions have had a positive impact on the labs' abilities to address case backlogs, maintain required accreditation standards, and improve forensic services.