Missouri § 191.317 - Confidentiality of all tests and personal information — exceptions — retention of specimens, procedure.
Full text of Missouri Revised Statutes of Missouri § 191.317 — Confidentiality of all tests and personal information — exceptions — retention of specimens, procedure., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 191.317. Confidentiality of all tests and personal information — exceptions — retention of specimens, procedure.
1. All testing results and personal information obtained from any individual, or from specimens from any individual, shall be held confidential and be considered a confidential medical record, except for such information as the individual, parent or guardian consents to be released; but the individual must first be fully informed of the scope of the information requests to be released, of the risks, benefits and purposes for such release, and of the identity of those to whom the information will be released. Statistical data compiled without reference to the identity of any individual shall not be declared confidential. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, the department may release the results of newborn screening tests to a child's health care professional.
2. The specimen shall be retained for five years after initial submission to the department. After five years, the specimen shall be destroyed. Unless otherwise directed under this section, a biological specimen may be released for purposes of anonymous scientific study. At the time of collection, the parent or legal guardian of the child from whom a biological specimen was obtained may direct the department to:
(1) Return a biological specimen that remains after all screening tests have been performed;
(2) Destroy a biological specimen in a scientifically acceptable manner after all screening tests required under section 191.331 or rule promulgated thereunder have been performed; or
(3) Store a biological specimen but not release the biological specimen for anonymous scientific study.
3. A biological specimen released for anonymous study under this section shall not contain information that may be used to determine the identity of the donor.
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(L. 1985 H.B. 612 § 191.315 subsec. 3, A.L. 2007 H.B. 948)
---- end of effective 28 Aug 2007 ----
Source: official Missouri text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Missouri § 191.317
What does Revised Statutes of Missouri § 191.317 cover?
Section 191.317 ("Confidentiality of all tests and personal information — exceptions — retention of specimens, procedure.") is part of the Revised Statutes of Missouri, the codified statutory law of Missouri. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Missouri § 191.317?
A common citation format is "Revised Statutes of Missouri § 191.317" (Missouri). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Missouri law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Missouri official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Missouri attorney.
How does Missouri § 191.317 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Missouri can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Missouri.