The massachusetts state police crime laboratory is requesting funds to improve the quality and timeliness of forensic science services through the purchase of critical equipment and overtime

The following initiatives are to assist with the opioid abuse crisis the laboratory has encountered: funds to support overtime for the drug and toxicology units to assist in increasing the case output and decreasing the backlog and funding to purchase a new GC-MS instrument for more efficient case processing. In addition, the trace, arson, and explosive unit would like to fund overtime to allow analysts to decrease turnaround time and case backlog. Additionally, the mspcl seeks to fund travel and training for analysts within the toxicology unit, the drug unit and the firearms identification section to allow individuals the opportunity for continued education and gain knowledge of current and future methods and technologies including assisting with learning about ways to help combat the opioid crisis. The boston police department forensic group would like to utilize funds from this program for travel and training. By attending trainings, the members of the BPD forensic group can stay abreast of the current methods and technologies available in their field of study as well as network with other professionals. The office of the chief medical examiner is requesting funding to purchase FTA cards and barrier pouches for the retention of DNA samples from all decedents. The boston fire department is seeking funding to complete their laboratory accreditation.