The U.S. federal government has expanded the amount of DNA information can be held in its databases.

DNA profiles can now be held on arrestees and illegal immigrants. The main database is the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS).

Federal legislation (Justice Reauthorization Bill) has also allowed a significant expansion of forensic DNA testing of illegal immigrants and those arrested by state and federal law officers.

Previously only convicted felons had their DNA profiles loaded into CODIS. A vendor of DNA testing, Orchid Cellmark, predict that potentially millions of people could be added to CODIS.

Those arrested who go on not to be convicted can ask to have their DNA profile removed.

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