Certification Form Quick Tips: External Investigations

The Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) seeks to fund improvements to forensic science and medical examiner/coroner (ME/C) services through the Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program (Coverdell Program). Under the Formula Coverdell Program, State Administering Agencies (SAAs) may apply for funds to improve forensic science and ME/C services provided by laboratories operated by the state or units of local government. The Coverdell law requires each applicant to certify the existence of a government entity that has an appropriate process in place to conduct independent external investigations into allegations of serious negligence or misconduct committed by individuals that substantially affects the integrity of the forensic results provided. Such individuals include employees or contractors of any forensic laboratory system, ME/C office, law enforcement storage facility, or medical facility in the state that will receive a portion of the award amount.