Texas Crime Lab Records (CLR) Connect
The Texas Crime Lab Records (CLR) Connect portal (which is pronounced Texas “Clear” Connect) is a statewide initiative developed by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) in response to Senate Bill 991, passed during the 88th Texas Legislative Session. The portal is designed to streamline the request and transfer of crime laboratory records among crime laboratories, attorneys representing the state, and other authorized parties as part of the criminal discovery process under Article 39.14, Code of Criminal Procedure.
About Texas CLR Connect
The CLR Connect portal will provide a secure, centralized, and digital means for delivering laboratory records subject to discovery. The system aims to:
- Improve efficiency in handling record requests.
- Enhance transparency within the criminal justice system.
- Ensure compliance with discovery obligations, including the Brady Rule and the Michael Morton Act.
The project is currently in development, with ongoing stakeholder engagement to ensure that crime laboratories across the state and beyond its borders are prepared for implementation.
Who Is Required to Participate?
Texas CLR Connect applies to all crime laboratories operating in Texas, as defined by Article 38.35 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. Participation requirements for out-of-state laboratories are still under discussion and will be determined in the finalized administrative rules.
Implementation Timeline
While there is no firm launch date for the CLR Connect portal at this time, DPS is committed to keeping stakeholders informed throughout the development process. Laboratories should be aware that implementation and compliance deadlines will be established through administrative rulemaking, with opportunities for feedback from affected agencies.
Stay Informed
Regular updates about the Texas CLR Connect project will be published through the CLR Connect Newsletter. You can access past issues below.
Newsletters
2025
2024
- Issue #6 – December 2024 (PDF)
- Issue #5 – November 2024 (PDF)
- Issue #4 – October 2024 (PDF)
- Issue #3 – September 2024 (PDF)
- Issue #2 – August 2024 (PDF)
- Issue #1 – July 2024 (PDF)
User Access Forms
- Texas CLR Connect Exemption Form (PDF) – In Development