Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act Of 2007

Floor Speech

GENETIC INFORMATION NONDISCRIMINATION ACT OF 2007 -- (Extensions of Remarks - May 02, 2007)

* Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act.

* I am a cosponsor of this important legislation, which bans discrimination in the workplace and in health insurance on the basis of predictive genetic information. It prohibits insurance companies from denying coverage or increasing premiums because of genetic factors. Also, under this bill, employers cannot consider genetic factors in the process of hiring, firing, or promoting workers. H.R. 493 is much like a Minnesota law, which I voted for when I was a member of the Minnesota House of Representatives.

* Genetic discrimination has the potential to affect every person in the United States. Despite advances in modern medical technology, it is impossible to predict with certainty whether a given individual will actually develop a disease. Patients recognize that few laws exist to prevent health insurers or employers from using their predictive genetic information to deny them coverage or jobs. As a result, they may avoid taking an important genetic test or participating in genetic research.

* Federal employees are already protected from genetic discrimination by an executive order signed by President Clinton and retained by President Bush. It is time to extend this protection to the rest of our country.

* H.R. 493 will give Americans the security they need to take care of their health needs without worrying that they will face discrimination. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this bill.

Source