Migrant Kids Aren't Criminals - Demand DNA Privacy Now

I am writing as a concerned constituent, deeply troubled by recent reports detailing the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's (CBP) collection of DNA samples from migrant children and their subsequent storage in the FBI's Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), a database traditionally reserved for individuals involved in criminal investigations. According to a WIRED article published on May 29, 2025, CBP has collected DNA from over 133,000 migrant children between 2020 and 2024, including children as young as four years old. These samples have been uploaded to CODIS, despite the fact that many of these children have not been accused of any crimes. This practice raises significant ethical, legal, and constitutional concerns, particularly regarding the rights of minors and the potential misuse of their genetic information. The Department of Homeland Security's policy generally exempts individuals under 14 from DNA collection. However, records indicate that exceptions have been made, leading to the collection of DNA from children as young as 10, and in at least one case, a four-year-old. Furthermore, some of the minors whose DNA was collected are U.S. citizens. The indefinite storage of these DNA samples in a criminal database not only blurs the line between civil immigration enforcement and criminal investigation but also poses long-term privacy risks. Experts warn that such practices could lead to genetic surveillance and potential misuse of sensitive information, affecting these children's futures in unforeseen ways. I urge you to: 1. Initiate a thorough investigation into CBP's DNA collection practices involving minors. 2. Assess the legality and ethical implications of storing minors' DNA in CODIS without criminal charges. 3. Advocate for clear policies that protect the rights and privacy of migrant children, ensuring that their genetic information is not misused or stored indefinitely without due cause. Protecting the rights and privacy of all individuals, especially vulnerable children, is paramount. I trust you will take the necessary steps to address this critical issue.