text: It is interesting in that most, or at least many, of the comments are screaming for cuts in the number of state employees, but then they quickly trash the crime lab for its shortcomings. The fact of the matter is that the legislature should fund a special appropriation to properly man the crime lab with the high quality forensic specialist necessary to perform the tasks expected of the lab. They should also provide funds to properly compensate the crime lab supervisor as it is a very highly specialized function. I suspect currently Alaska is not able to offer wages that are competitive in order to draw the very best people to work at the lab.
  
  Additionally, people don't seem to realize that often the lab specialists are away from the lab testifying in court, or waiting to testify in court, which of course slows down the process even more. And much of the equipment used at the lab is outdated. The lab should be a shining star in forensics but lacks proper funding.