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Senate Approves Peters' Measure to Safeguard Americans' Genetic Data
Russ Survance
Thu, 18 Dec 2025 09:36:03 EST
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A bipartisan measure introduced by U.S. Sen. Gary Peters (D-MI) to protect Americans' genetic and health data from foreign governments has been approved by the Senate as part of the annual defense authorization bill.
The provision prohibits U.S. funding - through contracts, grants, or loans - to biotechnology firms that are owned or controlled by foreign adversaries, such as China's Communist Party, if their activities pose a national security threat. It now heads to the President for signature.
Peters said the measure will ensure Americans can trust their genetic information remains secure when receiving medical care. The initiative responds to concerns from the U.S. intelligence community about foreign efforts, including by China's BGI Group, to obtain genetic data for potential military and economic uses.
The legislation also establishes review processes to identify high-risk biotech companies, allows appeals for those designated as security threats, and protects access to medical supplies during public health emergencies - particularly for U.S. service members overseas.
