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As genetic testing becomes more prevelant, employers need to be aware of the Genetic Information Non-discrimination Act, or GINA. That is why the EEOC is inviting employers and the public to comment on proposed GINA regulations until April 25, 2009 at www.eeoc.gov.

When the Human Genome Project began the cataloguing of human DNA back in April of 2003, it was hailed as a scientific milestone. It also raised fears of an Orwellian future in which “Big Brother” would sort people by their genetic tendencies. There was concern that a worker’s future would be determined by the results of his or her genetic tests.

Now there is a law that addresses such concerns. It is the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act or GINA. Under GINA it is illegal for employers to make job decisions based on genetic information. Such decisions would include, hiring, firing, pay, training, working conditions, status, raises, and promotions. The law means it is illegal (more…)