Introduction Of Taxpayer Protection From Genetic Discrimination Act

INTRODUCTION OF TAXPAYER PROTECTION FROM GENETIC DISCRIMINATION ACT -- (Extensions of Remarks - September 20, 2006)

SPEECH OF HON. RON PAUL OF TEXAS
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2006

* Mr. PAUL. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to introduce the Taxpayer Protection from Genetic Discrimination Act. This bill ensures that no American taxpayer will be denied health care because of his or her genetic history by any agency of the federal government, a state or local government, or a government contractor. Some people have raised concerns that, while recent advances in genetic testing bring much hope of improved medical treatment, the increased use of genetic tests may also result in many people being denied access to health insurance, or even refused employment, because of their genetic history.

* I recently met with some of my constituents who are concerned that people with polycentric kidney disease, which can be identified with a genetic test, often lose their insurance coverage because their insurance companies or employers discover they have polycentric kidney disease. Whatever long-term reforms designed to address this problem one favors, I hope that all my colleagues could agree that Congress should make sure that American citizens are not forced to subsidize government agencies or contractors who deny health insurance based on someone's genetic profile. I therefore hope all my colleagues support the Taxpayer Protection from Genetic Discrimination Act.

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