Tennessee General Assembly enacts Genomic Security and End Organ Harvesting Act

In a significant move aimed at safeguarding genetic information and addressing human rights abuses, the Tennessee State Legislature has introduced House Bill 395, also known as the Tennessee Genomic Security and End Organ Harvesting Act. This legislation, presented on April 4, 2025, seeks to prevent companies linked to adversarial military powers, particularly the People's Republic of China, from accessing sensitive genetic data from U.S. citizens.

The bill's primary objectives are twofold: to combat the alarming practice of forced organ harvesting and to protect residents from inadvertently participating in such activities. The legislation explicitly condemns the Chinese government's state-sanctioned organ harvesting of prisoners and other vulnerable individuals, framing it as a violation of basic human rights. By establishing stringent regulations around genetic data collection, the bill aims to ensure that Tennessee residents are not unknowingly complicit in these practices.

Key provisions of the bill include a definition of "company" that encompasses various business structures, including for-profit and nonprofit organizations. It also outlines the criteria for determining a company's domicile, which is crucial for enforcing the bill's restrictions. The legislation aligns with broader U.S. efforts to impose sanctions on entities involved in the collection and analysis of genetic information for military purposes, particularly those associated with the Chinese Communist Party.

The introduction of House Bill 395 has sparked notable debates among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step to protect human rights and national security, while critics express concerns about potential overreach and the implications for legitimate scientific research and collaboration. Amendments to the bill may arise as discussions continue, particularly regarding the balance between security and innovation in genetic research.

The implications of this legislation extend beyond state borders, reflecting a growing trend among U.S. states to take a stand against foreign practices perceived as unethical. Experts suggest that if passed, House Bill 395 could set a precedent for similar laws in other states, potentially reshaping the landscape of genetic research and data privacy in the United States.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its future remains uncertain. Stakeholders are closely monitoring developments, with potential outcomes ranging from the establishment of robust protections against human rights abuses to challenges that could arise from the scientific community regarding the bill's restrictions. The ongoing discussions surrounding House Bill 395 underscore the complex interplay between ethics, security, and innovation in today's global landscape.