3/12/2020

CFO Jimmy Patronis: Florida Takes Vital Step in Protecting Consumers' Genetic Information

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement on the passage of House Bill 1189 relating to genetic information for insurance purposes by Speaker-designate Chris Sprowls and Senator Kelli Stargel. The legislation, which now heads to Governor Ron DeSantis, expands existing prohibitions on the use of genetic information for insurance purposes to include life, long-term care, and disability insurance.   CFO Jimmy Patronis said, “Just like your financial data, your DNA data must remain private and I applaud the Florida Legislature today for passing this important measure to protect your genetic information. As DNA testing has become increasingly popular through companies like 23andMe and AncestryDNA, we must ensure that your genetic code is not used against you. DNA information should only be shared with your explicit consent and it should not be used to determine the cost and kinds of insurance coverage available to you.   "Thank you to Speaker-designate Chris Sprowls and Senator Kelli Stargel for working tirelessly to fight for Florida's consumers and your right to genetic privacy.”

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About CFO Jimmy Patronis  Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is a statewide elected official and a member of Florida’s Cabinet who oversees the Department of Financial Services. CFO Patronis works each day to fight insurance fraud, support Florida’s firefighters, and ensure the state’s finances are stable to support economic growth in the state. Follow the activities of the Department on Facebook (FLDFS) and Twitter (@FLDFS).