Advances in technology sometimes outpace rules designed for an earlier, simpler era.
This bill banning employment discrimination based on genetic testing is an important step in the right direction.
Reporting from Washington – The most sweeping federal anti-discrimination law in nearly 20 years takes effect today, prohibiting employers from hiring, firing or determining promotions based on genetic makeup.
Additionally, health insurers will not be allowed to consider a person’s genetics — such as predisposition for Parkinson’s disease — to set insurance rates or deny coverage.
Not since the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990 has the federal government implemented such far-reaching workplace protections. Stuart J. Ishimaru, acting chairman of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, said in a statement that the law reaffirms the idea that people have a right to be judged solely on merit.
“No one should be denied a job or the right to be treated fairly in the workplace based on fears that he or she may develop some condition in the future,” he said.
