What is the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA)?

The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) is a law passed in 2008 to protect individuals from discrimination based on their genetic information. This law applies to both private and public employers in North Carolina, as well as health insurance companies and schools. GINA protects an individual from being discriminated against because of their genetic information, which includes both the results of genetic tests and their family medical history. This law prevents employers from using an individual’s genetic information when making decisions about their hiring, firing, promotions, or any other employment decisions. It also protects employers from collecting, storing, or sharing an individual’s genetic information if it is not necessary for a job-related task. GINA also prevents health insurance companies from denying coverage, increasing premiums, or changing coverage based on a person’s genetic information. It also prevents schools from using genetic information to make decisions about admission, academic advising, or other educational purposes. Overall, the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act is a federal law that seeks to protect individuals from discrimination based on their genetic information. It applies to employers, health insurance companies, and schools throughout North Carolina and ensures that everyone is treated fairly and with respect, regardless of their genetic information.

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What is the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA)?

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