The General Assembly has passed legislation to protect Tennesseans’ DNA from foreign adversaries and stand against human rights violations linked to illegal organ harvesting.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The General Assembly has passed legislation to protect Tennesseans’ DNA from foreign adversaries and stand against human rights violations linked to illegal organ harvesting.
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.
Bryan Terry, MD, represents House District 48 which includes the eastern half of Rutherford County.
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