U.S. Senators Todd Young and Mark Warner have reached out to the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regarding concerns over the handling of Americans’ genomic data amidst the bankruptcy proceedings of 23andMe, a company renowned for its work in personal genomics and biotechnology.
The senators raised issues about attempts by the People’s Republic of China and other foreign entities to access genomic data. “As the Chinese government has realized, genomic data is incredibly valuable,” emphasized the senators in their letter. They noted the potential risks from the Chinese government’s use of biometric data for surveillance purposes and drew attention to various implications for national security and consumer protection.
Praising recent actions by the Justice Department, Young and Warner still called for additional steps to prevent unauthorized access to Americans’ genomic data. “In addition to the Department’s recent filing, and any anticipated CFIUS review, the Department, in conjunction with the Commission and other U.S. agencies as appropriate, must closely monitor the sale or transfer of, or access to, 23andMe’s genomic databank,” they advised.
The senators referenced the DOJ’s April 22 filing, highlighting the inclusion of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States to review the transaction due to national security considerations. They expressed concern over foreign nations’ potential to collect and misuse genomic data, which could threaten U.S. security on multiple fronts.
Also addressed were privacy issues related to data sharing among family members of those who used 23andMe services. The senators noted that this data not only affects direct users but also relatives who share genetic markers.
The letter from Senators Young and Warner is clear in its call for vigilance. “In short, it is paramount to our national and economic security that there is a whole-of-government approach to protecting Americans’ sensitive genomic data,” it conveyed, emphasizing an ongoing dedication to collaborating with relevant agencies on this matter.
A complete version of their correspondence is accessible for further details.
