TN General Assembly Tennessee approves Genomic Security and End Organ Harvesting Act

UPDATED: Nashville, TN - The General Assembly has passed legislation to protect Tennesseans’ DNA from foreign adversaries and stand against human rights violations linked to illegal organ harvesting. (READ DETAILS IN OUR PREVIOUS ARTICLE ON THE BILL HERE)

The Tennessee Genomic Security and End Organ Harvesting Act, sponsored by State Rep. Bryan Terry, R-Murfreesboro, addresses genomic security and ensures the state is disconnected from China’s illegal organ harvesting practices.

“Advancements in genetic research have paved the way for groundbreaking developments in medicine and research, but foreign entities like those in China, are exploiting this data for their own gain,” Terry said. “I’m grateful my colleagues in the General Assembly recognize the critical need for this legislation to protect our citizens and appreciate their support.”

Genetic information is essential for diagnosing diseases, creating new medications and expanding our knowledge of biology. Researchers use blood or saliva samples and utilize bioinformatics tools to examine DNA, identifying genetic variations and mutations.

After the law takes effect, any genetic sequencers or software from foreign adversaries will be prohibited in Tennessee.

Illegal organ harvesting and transplants generate significant income with annual estimates ranging from $840 million to $1.7 billion, according to a report by Global Financial Integrity.

A 2022 study found that China is violating the ‘dead donor rule,’ and is performing ‘execution by organ transplantation.’

“Although no instances of this have been reported in Tennessee, this legislation ensures our citizens are not complicit in this barbaric practice and stands firmly against China’s illegal organ harvesting operations,” Terry said.

This bill also prohibits a health insurer from knowingly covering organ transplants in China or any transplants involving organs sold or donated by Chinese sources.

The Tennessee Genomic Security and End Organ Harvesting Act now heads to the governor’s desk for his signature. The act will take effect on Jan. 1, 2026.

Snapshot of Bill: The "Tennessee Genomic Security and End Organ Harvesting Act" is a new law that aims to protect people's DNA and prevent illegal organ harvesting. Here are the main points of the bill:

Health Insurance Rules: Starting January 1, 2026, health insurance plans cannot cover organ transplants done in China or involving organs from China. The health commissioner can also add other countries involved in forced organ harvesting to a public list.
Genetic Sequencer Restrictions: Medical and research facilities cannot use genetic testing equipment or software from countries considered foreign adversaries, including China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia. Any non-compliant equipment must be replaced within 180 days of the law taking effect.
Data Storage Requirements: All genetic data must be stored in the United States, and accessing this data from outside the country is generally not allowed unless the health commissioner gives written approval. Facilities must use strong security measures to protect this data.
Enforcement and Penalties: The attorney general can investigate violations of the law, and anyone can report suspected violations. Medical facilities and research institutions must prove they are following the law each year or face fines. Violating the rules can lead to fines of up to $100,000 for health insurers and $10,000 for others.
Compensation for Violations: If someone’s genetic information is misused by a facility that breaks this law, they can claim at least $5,000 for each time their information was used incorrectly.

Overall, this law seeks to ensure genetic security and prevent unethical practices related to organ donation.

As you know, Bryan Terry, MD, represents House District 48 which includes the eastern half of Rutherford County. He is a member of the Rutherford County delegation. This group of local elected officials are on WGNS on the last Friday of each month when the General Assembly is operating. The next broadcast will be Friday, March 28, 2025 from 8:15-9:00AM. WGNS is at FM 101.9, FM 100.5, AM 1450 and streamed worldwide at http://WGNSradio.com.