They provide half of our operating budget. They have given us access to key databases, including the FBI's national crime computer. They have mandated sex offender registration laws and state Megan's Laws. There is strong bipartisan leadership on this issue right now in Congress. We have a new Missing and Exploited Children's Caucus in Congress.
Fingerprints are excellent for trace evidence and determining identity.
However, first the fingerprint has to be readable and usable. Ultimately, DNA is going to become the fingerprint of the 21st century and, its quality and benefits are far superior. There is some pending legislation on that issue. It is really more of a question of privacy than child safety, but it is important. As I understand it, parents can contact list companies or the Direct Marketing Association and ask that their children's name and information be removed from databases.