Human Resources Code § 40.084

Sec. 40.084. RETENTION OF GENETIC MATERIAL AND GENETIC INFORMATION. (a) In this section: (1) "DNA" means deoxyribonucleic acid. (2) "Genetic information" means information related to the genetic characteristics of an individual or the individual's family that is derived from the results of a genetic analysis. (3) "Genetic material" means blood or another specimen that contains DNA. (4) "Genetic test" means an analysis of an individual's genetic material to determine paternity. (5) "Testing laboratory" means any entity the department contracts with for the provision of laboratory services, including genetic testing. (b) Except as provided by Subsection (c), the department and any testing laboratory used by the department shall promptly destroy any genetic material and delete any genetic information obtained from an individual for the purpose of a genetic test after the purpose for which the sample was obtained is accomplished. (c) The department shall retain the results of a genetic test. The results of a genetic test are confidential under Section 40.005. Added by Acts 2025, 89th Leg., R.S., Ch. 656 (H.B. 4377), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2025.