Genetic

Push for Genetic Data Protection in Pennsylvania: New Legislation Arises Amid 23andMe’s Troubles

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HARRISBURG, Pa. — The recent bankruptcy announcement by the genetic testing company 23andMe has sparked concerns over the potential sale and misuse of the genetic data of its 15 million users. In Pennsylvania, where no specific laws safeguard genetic information, this situation has prompted legislative action aimed at protecting such sensitive data from falling into irresponsible hands. In response to growing unease, State Reps. Emily Kinkead and Brian Munroe, both Democrats, have proposed a new bill titled “The Genetic Materials Privacy and Compensation Act,” striving to instill strong privacy protections similar to those in ten … Read more

Idaho Judge Upholds Use of Genetic Genealogy in University of Idaho Quadruple Murder Case

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Moscow, Idaho — An Idaho court has upheld the legality of pivotal evidence in the trial of Bryan Kohberger, who faces murder charges in connection with the deaths of four University of Idaho students. On Wednesday, Judge Steven Hippler dismissed defense claims that the use of Investigative Genetic Genealogy (IGG) to link Kohberger to the crime scene violated his constitutional rights. The ruling followed arguments that stretched over a two-day hearing last month, setting the stage for Kohberger’s trial, scheduled for August. Amidst rising public interest, Hippler decreed that although the courtroom would be closed … Read more

Franklin County Jury Values Canine Genetic Material at Over $2 Million in Groundbreaking Verdict

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Columbus, Ohio — In a remarkable legal decision out of Franklin County, a jury has determined that the value of a dog’s semen has soared to over $2 million, shining a spotlight on the lucrative and increasingly competitive world of dog breeding. The verdict, which concluded a lengthy dispute between two renowned dog breeders, revolves around a collection of frozen semen from a prize-winning Labrador Retriever, known in show and breeding circles for his superior genetic traits. This genetic material was considered to be of exceptional quality, contributing to the dog’s offspring consistently winning at … Read more