by David Pincock
Secret DNA databases cataloging citizens of the U.S might sound like science fiction but recently the Department of State Health Services of Texas was caught doing just this. It was found that 800 blood samples from newborns across Texas were taken, without permission, for the purpose of creating a DNA database. A law passed in 2002 in Texas allows for blood samples to be taken without consent so authorities apparently felt they could also use this blood for research with consent as well. A frightening tale but is this where the world is heading anyways? [Texas Tribune]
Many advocates feel that DNA databases could be an invaluable tool for finding missing persons or solving crimes. The ability to accurately and consistently identify any living person is more realistic every day. This is such a polarizing topic within the science community due to the privacy concerns of such databases. So what do our readers think? Comment Below.
