The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act


 

Publication Date: June 2008

Publisher: Genetics and Public Policy Center

Author(s): Susannah Baruch

Research Area: Health; Law and ethics

Keywords: Genetic testing; Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act

Type: Brief

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

President Bush signed the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) of 2008 into law on May 21, 2008. The law makes it illegal for health insurers or employers to discriminate against individuals based on their genetic information. All provisions of the law will take effect within 18 months of the signing.