The Associated Press

COLUMBUS - Gov. Bob Taft on Wednesday signed into law a bill that allows inmates convicted of felonies a second chance to prove their innocence by asking for a DNA test.

The bill, sponsored by Sen. David Goodman, a Bexley Republican, allows prisoners with at least one year left on their sentences to apply for the testing.

An inmate who originally pleaded not guilty to the crime for which he or she was convicted could apply to a Common Pleas Court judge for the testing. If the judge denied the application, the inmate could take it to a state appeals court.

If the inmate pleaded guilty or no contest, which is neither an admission nor a denial of guilt, the prosecutor who brought the charge could deny permission to apply.

Taft also signed a bill that authorizes Ohioans to designate a person to make decisions about treatment should they become mentally ill. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Scott Oelslager, a Canton Republican, also allows them to choose a course of treatment.

"It's very important to allow all Ohioans, should they become incapacitated for whatever reason, to make provisions for how they would be cared for," Taft said.

Both laws take effect in 90 days.