Senate Honors Work of Forensic Scientists

Washington, D.C.--The U.S. Senate unanimously approved a Senate Resolution designating September 14-20, 2025, as National Forensic Science Week. The resolution, introduced by U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Alex Padilla (D-California), and co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and John Cornyn (R-Texas), honors the role forensic science plays in administering justice to crime offenders and exonerating the innocent.

"Forensic scientists help to provide truth in the criminal justice system," said Senator Crapo. "Forensic science frees the innocent and furnishes justice for victims, and the Idaho State Police is a leader in significance of these essential services. It is an honor to acknowledge and recognize their invaluable efforts, as well as those of forensic scientists across the country."

"America's justice system relies on accurate forensic science," said Senator Padilla. "That's why I've partnered with Senators Crapo, Cornyn, and Risch in this bipartisan effort to highlight the critical role strong partnerships among forensic science laboratories and federal agencies play in protecting public safety and fighting injustice."

"Forensic science plays an integral role in America's criminal justice system," said Senator Risch. "This week, we recognize Idaho's forensic scientists who work hard to provide closure to victims, convict dangerous criminals, and free the innocent."

"Without robust forensic science, the United States criminal justice system would not be able to function," said Matthew Gamette, Idaho State Police Forensic Services Laboratory System Director. "We appreciate the support of the United States Senate, and specifically our Senators from Idaho, in recognizing the important contributions of forensic scientists to advance the science in forensic science, provide critical information to law enforcement and the courts, and to bring resolution to victims of crime and their families. We appreciate the support of Congress in funding forensic science providers, including medical examiner and coroner offices, to assist them in being more efficient, effective, and innovative in solving forensic science cases."

Read the full text of the resolution HERE.

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