The House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform convened to discuss the potential implications of 23andMe’s bankruptcy on national security and privacy. The hearing, titled “Securing Americans’ Genetic Information: Privacy and National Security Concerns Surrounding 23andMe’s Bankruptcy Sale,” highlighted concerns about the future ownership of the genetic testing company, which holds DNA data from 15 million customers.
Chairman James Comer raised alarms over a pending acquisition involving Regeneron Pharmaceuticals and TTAM Research Institute, questioning the safety of personal genetic information. He remarked, “All of this raises questions about whether Congress needs to take action to ensure the safety of Americans’ personal genetic data.”
Former CEO Anne Wojcicki acknowledged privacy concerns in light of China’s advancements in biotechnology. Interim CEO Joe Selsavage assured that sensitive DNA data would not be sold to foreign adversaries like China or Russia during bankruptcy proceedings.
Committee members emphasized bipartisan efforts to legislate protections for genetic data. Rep. Virginia Foxx discussed China’s history with genetic data misuse, citing a New York Times report on tracking Uyghur Muslims. Rep. Gary Palmer sought clarity on who has access to 23andMe’s database beyond employees.
Rep. Tim Burchett highlighted past investments from WuXi healthcare ventures linked to Chinese interests, while Rep. John McGuire warned against national security risks if such entities gain access to genetic data.
The hearing concluded with commitments from 23andMe executives not to sell sensitive information during the bankruptcy process.
