DNA and Genetic Testing - As enacted, directs the department of health to test for the presence of sickle cell trait in each newborn and, if the test results are positive for sickle cell trait, to notify the parent or legal guardian of the newborn tested as soon as practicable. - Amends TCA Title 68, Chapter 5.

SB 1697 requires Tennessee's Department of Health to test every newborn for sickle cell trait starting on the bill's effective date. If a newborn tests positive for sickle cell trait, the department must notify the parent or legal guardian as soon as practicable. The bill directly affects all newborns in Tennessee born on or after the effective date and their families by adding this screening to the state's newborn health program. It amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 68, Chapter 5, to establish this mandatory testing and notification process.