Do you own your DNA?

The Senate Judiciary Committee is considering a bill that declares you own your genetic information and DNA.

HB 1493, sponsored by privacy advocate Rep. Neal Kurk, states that an individual’s DNA cannot be “acquired, retained, or disclosed” without the individual’s written consent.  There is an exception for criminal investigations.

The issue of DNA ownership is growing more relevant now that genetic sequencing is readily available to the public.  Private companies offer genetic profiles for ancestry research; do they have a right to share those genetic profiles with scientific researchers?  Doctors also look for genetic disease markers in tissue samples.  Can those doctors use those tissue samples for other studies?

Supporters of a law protecting DNA ownership argue that genetic information is extremely personal and private.  They express concern that one day genetic profiles could be used to discriminate in insurance, loans, or employment.

Opponents of HB 1493 have expressed concern that the requirement for written consent will hinder medical research.  Others are concerned that the bill is not written carefully enough to protect the use of DNA in criminal investigations.

At least four other states – Alaska, Colorado, Florida, and Georgia – have laws protecting the ownership of DNA.

Do you think New Hampshire needs to clarify DNA ownership?  Share your opinion in the comments.