Summary

This bill prohibits genetic discrimination by health insurance providers and employers. Under this bill, these entities cannot require genetic testing, cannot determine premiums or eligibility for insurance or employment based on genetic information, and are limited in their collection and use of genetic information./1/

Background

Concerns that the results of genetic tests could be used by insurance companies against them may prevent people from getting tested for disposition towards disease.

Political Context

President Bush has stated he supports Genetic Privacy legislation. Such legislation passed the Senate in 2003, but did not pass the house. The insurance industry opposes Genetic Privacy legislation./2/

Additional Links

/1/ EPIC Genetic Privacy webpage
/2/ Gay, Sheryl, "Senate Sends to House a Bill on Safeguarding Genetic Privacy" New York Times October 15, 2003