News Summary
Twenty-seven states and the District of Columbia have filed a lawsuit against 23andMe in an effort to protect consumers’ genetic data from being sold without consent. The lawsuit questions the ownership and privacy rights related to genetic information, particularly following the company’s recent bankruptcy filing and a significant data breach affecting millions of customers. Additionally, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals has expressed interest in acquiring 23andMe but with privacy concerns pending review. This case could set important precedents for genetic data regulations and consumer consent.
A Legal Showdown Over Your Genetic Data!
In a significant move stirring up a lot of conversation, twenty-seven states and the District of Columbia have joined forces to take legal action against the popular genetic testing company, 23andMe. These states filed a lawsuit in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Missouri, aiming to block 23andMe from selling customers’ personal genetic data without their consent. This lawsuit raises some serious questions about privacy, ownership, and consent in the realm of genetic information.
What’s the Deal with 23andMe?
Founded back in 2006, 23andMe became a household name, allowing customers to send in saliva samples to discover everything from their ancestry to genetic health traits. The company went public in 2021, but since then, it has faced challenges finding a solid business model that brings in profits. Fast forward to March 2025, and the company found itself filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and letting go of about 40% of its workforce—quite a shake-up!
What’s the Privacy Issue?
Oregon’s Attorney General has highlighted that biological samples and health-related data are extremely sensitive and should not be sold without clear and informed consent from customers. The lawsuit is pushing back against 23andMe’s claim of ownership over customers’ genetic data, insisting that people have a fundamental right to control their own biological materials, especially when it comes to privacy issues.
A Major Acquisition on the Horizon?
In a twist to the story, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals has announced its intention to acquire 23andMe for a whopping $256 million. They’ve reassured the public that they will adhere strictly to 23andMe’s privacy policies as well as all relevant laws concerning customer data. However, there’s a catch—it’s not entirely smooth sailing yet. A court-appointed independent consumer privacy ombudsman is currently reviewing the proposed sale to assess how it will impact consumer privacy.
Past Troubles Haunting 23andMe
On top of their bankruptcy woes, 23andMe suffered a significant data breach back in October 2023, which affected about half of their 14 million customers. This led to a class-action lawsuit and resulted in a $30 million settlement for those impacted. Customers who were part of the breach can file claims that may even see them receive up to $10,000 for extraordinary claims. It’s quite the shake-up for anyone concerned about data security!
The Bigger Picture
This lawsuit is not just about 23andMe. It throws a spotlight on larger societal issues regarding how genetic data is treated, ownership rights, and what consent really means in this digital age. As lawmakers delve deeper into these practices, many are questioning how companies like 23andMe handle consent for selling genetic data.
What’s Next?
The outcome of this legal battle could pave the way for future regulations on genetic data, perhaps setting a major precedent for how such information is processed and utilized. With concerns about customer consent at the forefront, we could witness significant changes in how genetic testing companies operate moving forward. As intrigued observers, we’ll be keenly watching how this unfolds—our genetic data might just be at the heart of a new legal revolution!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- CNET: 23andMe’s Data Breach Settlement
- NBC News: States Sue to Block Sale of 23andMe Data
- Washington Post: 23andMe Genetic Data Privacy Bankruptcy
- GeneOnline: 23andMe Sued by 27 States
- My Mother Lode: How to Protect Your 23andMe Genetic Data
- Wikipedia: Genetic Testing
- Google Search: 23andMe Genetic Data Privacy
- Google Scholar: 23andMe Lawsuit
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Genetic Data
- Google News: 23andMe News
Author: STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER
NEW YORK STAFF WRITER The NEW YORK STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewYork.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New York, the five boroughs, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as New York Fashion Week, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Tribeca Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and United Way of New York, plus leading businesses in finance and media that power the local economy such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Bloomberg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBuffalo.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into New York's dynamic landscape.
