Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act

The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008 is a law that prohibits the use of genetic information in health insurance and employment decisions. The Act bars group health plans and health insurers from denying coverage or charging higher premiums based on a genetic predisposition to developing a disease in the future, and also prohibits employers from using genetic information when making hiring, firing, job placement, or promotion decisions. The Act was passed by the Senate 95-0 and by the House of Representatives 414-1, and was signed into law by President George W. Bush on May 21, 2008. The Act was the result of efforts by various patient and civil rights groups, and was led by Senator Ted Kennedy and Representative Louise Slaughter. The Act has been amended several times, including in 2016 to provide further clarification on acceptable workplace wellness programs.learn more on wikipedia