California

California Bill to Protect Privacy of Newborn Babies’ Blood Samples Passes First Legislative Hurdle

Unknown to many parents, the state’s health department collects and stores blood samples from newborn babies without their consent—but that could soon change.
California Bill to Protect Privacy of Newborn Babies’ Blood Samples Passes First Legislative Hurdle
A father prepares to change diapers for his newborn daughter as his wife keeps watch in the postpartum unit at Providence St. Mary Medical Center in Apple Valley, Calif., on March 30, 2021. Mario Tama/Getty Images
Jill McLaughlin
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Unknown to many parents, California’s state health department collects and stores blood samples from newborn babies without their consent—but that could soon change.

Senate Bill (SB) 625, authored by Sen. Janet Nguyen (R-Huntington Beach), unanimously passed the Senate Judiciary Committee 8–0 Jan. 11 and will be considered next by the chamber’s Appropriations Committee before a full Senate vote on the measure.
Jill McLaughlin
Jill McLaughlin
Author
Jill McLaughlin is an award-winning journalist covering politics, environment, and statewide issues. She has been a reporter and editor for newspapers in Oregon, Nevada, and New Mexico. Jill was born in Yosemite National Park and enjoys the majestic outdoors, traveling, golfing, and hiking.
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