Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s proposal to expand the state’s DNA database by collecting samples from anyone convicted of any misdemeanor has civil liberty types crying foul. As well they should. Adding some 200 misdemeanors to the few dozen that now require DNA disclosure would broaden the ability of the state to collect otherwise personal information from citizens. But it would also be yet another setback to the concept of the right to privacy.
Leave aside for a moment the disparity of a crime like trespassing carrying a punishment that requires forfeiting genetic information. Further infringement on privacy is what’s most troubling. Lawmakers in Albany and Washington need to do an assessment.
Read more of the editorial by Rochester Democrat & Chronicle.