Anyone who takes a genetic test is protected by the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008, also known as GINA. This federal law prevents discrimination by health insurers or employers based on someone’s genetic information.
This means that it is against the law for a health insurer to
- Request that you have a genetic test
- Deny health insurance based on a genetic test result
- Deny health insurance based on your family health history
- Change the cost of your health insurance based on a genetic test result or your family health history
It is also against the law for a current or future employer to
- Use your genetic information to make decisions about hiring, firing, promotion, or pay
- Request, require, or purchase your genetic information (with a few specific exceptions)
In addition to GINA, some states may also have laws that offer further protection against discrimination based on genetic information. To learn more about GINA, and how it protects you, visit ginahelp.org.