Post by addisona on Feb 11, 2022 13:29:45 GMT
California Senate aims to limit ‘junk science’ in courtrooms
California lawmakers on Wednesday moved to deter the use of what a legislator called “junk science” in the courtroom and give those convicted with questionable expert testimony a way out of prison.
Senators approved changing the state’s definition of false testimony to include expert court opinions based on flawed scientific research or outdated technology, or where a reasonable scientific dispute has emerged over its validity.
Expert opinions that aren’t based on bona fide research, peer-reviewed studies or other science would not satisfy the state’s requirements for admissible testimony.
The bill by Democratic state Sen. Scott Wiener would allow people to appeal if they previously were convicted based on the discredited testimony.
“This bill gives judges stronger tools to prevent junk science from coming into our courtrooms,” Wiener said.
apnews.com/article/science-california-legislature-scott-wiener-7eb22a2796cc9acd0eb85d3ca41f9ec8
California lawmakers on Wednesday moved to deter the use of what a legislator called “junk science” in the courtroom and give those convicted with questionable expert testimony a way out of prison.
Senators approved changing the state’s definition of false testimony to include expert court opinions based on flawed scientific research or outdated technology, or where a reasonable scientific dispute has emerged over its validity.
Expert opinions that aren’t based on bona fide research, peer-reviewed studies or other science would not satisfy the state’s requirements for admissible testimony.
The bill by Democratic state Sen. Scott Wiener would allow people to appeal if they previously were convicted based on the discredited testimony.
“This bill gives judges stronger tools to prevent junk science from coming into our courtrooms,” Wiener said.
apnews.com/article/science-california-legislature-scott-wiener-7eb22a2796cc9acd0eb85d3ca41f9ec8