MA house approves forensic testing bill

BOSTON (AP) - The Massachusetts House has unanimously approved a bill that gives those convicted of a crime the right to request that the courts order new forensic tests of the evidence used to convict them.  

Under the legislation, anyone requesting the new scientific analysis must show that the testing has the potential to result in evidence that could change their conviction.  

The individual must also demonstrate to the courts that the requested analysis had not already been developed at the time of their conviction.  

The bill applies to anyone convicted of a criminal offense and is incarcerated in a state prison or jail -- or is on parole or probation. The Massachusetts Senate has already approved a similar bill.