Minnesota statute permits long-term storage of babies’ genetic information

Minnesota’s newborn screening program is again storing newborn screening data indefinitely.

A law passed during the legislative session removes a restriction that required the Minnesota Department of Health to destroy dried blood spot cards after 71 days and test results after two years.

To prepare for the change, the Minnesota Department of Health has sent more than 1,600 letters to prenatal providers informing them of the law.

The statute, backed by a dozen medical organizations and societies, takes effect today. It allows parents who object to the change to opt out of long-term storage of their child’s screening data.

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Critics say the new storage policy puts an unreasonable burden on families who don’t want the government to automatically preserve their child’s genetic data.

Minnesota’s newborn screening program tests for more than 50 rare conditions that could be harmful or fatal if not treated early in life.

Read the full, original story: State to resume indefinite storage of newborn health data