“The information could actually have a chilling effect that keeps those already distrustful of the government from taking the COVID-19 test and possibly accelerate the spread of the disease,” the Tennessee Black Caucus said in a statement.
Sharing the information does not violate medical privacy laws, according to guidance issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
The process is simple: State and local health departments keep track of who has received a test in their region and then provide the information to dispatch centers.
He said law enforcement agencies should provide assurances that the information won’t be turned over to the federal government, noting the Trump administration’s demands that local governments cooperate with immigration authorities.
Law enforcement officials say they have long been entrusted with confidential information — such as social security numbers and criminal history.
