Felons in Nebraska may not only have to submit DNA samples to the state -- they may have to pay for them, too.

On Monday, lawmakers amended a bill (LB190) to require that felons pay the roughly $30 cost of the DNA kits needed to collect and submit the samples. Lawmakers wanted the amendment to ensure state government wouldn't pay the costs because of the current budget problems.

The underlying bill from Sen. Bill Avery of Lincoln got second-round approval on Monday. It would require all felons behind bars or on probation to submit DNA samples. He says it would help police solve cold cases and could help with the exoneration of innocent inmates.

Currently, only those convicted of certain felonies in Nebraska have to give DNA samples.