DECATUR, Ala. (AP) — County jails around Alabama are receiving DNA collection kits to be used to collect samples from people arrested for certain crimes.

The kits are being distributed under a state law approved last year. It authorizes the collection of DNA from people accused of felonies or sexual offenses.

The Lawrence County Jail has collected biological samples for a month using a procedure that consists of swabbing the inside of an individual’s cheek. The Morgan County Jail may begin the procedure within the month.

Under the Alabama law, the accused can refuse to provide a sample, and the refusal can’t be used against that person as evidence.

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