Genetic Information Non-Discrimination Act signed into law

On May 21, 2008, President Bush signed into law the Genetic Information Non-Discrimination Act ("GINA").  GINA prohibits employers from discharging, refusing to hire, or otherwise discriminating against employees on the basis of genetic information.  It also applies to employment agencies and labor unions. 

In addition, GINA precludes discrimination by group health plans and health insurers against individuals based on genetic information, and prohibits insurers from requiring genetic tests.  Insurance companies also cannot request, require, or purchase the results of genetic tests, and they are prohibited from disclosing personal genetic information.