Compulsory DNA Sampling of Service Members for Inclusion in the DOD DNA Registry: Remains Identification With a Risk.

摘要

During the summer of 1992, the military began a DNA collection program that requires a DNA specimen be collected from every active duty, reserve, and national guard service member. A central DNA specimen repository was established to facilitate remains identification using DNA analysis for the more difficult identification cases. Based upon a Fourth Amendment analysis, this thesis balances service members' privacy interests in their genetic information against the military necessity of remains identification using DNA. This thesis concludes that the DNA collection program sweeps too broadly into legitimate privacy interests, and is unconstitutional in its present form. The thesis recommends changes to the program that will adequately protect service members' privacy interests in their DNA while not interfering with the military's interests in developing and employing DNA analysis for remains identification.