What is the Genetic Information and Non-Discrimination Act?

The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) prohibits employers (those covered by Title VII) from discriminating (hiring, firing, refusing to hire, or otherwise discriminating) based upon an employee or perspective employees genetic information. Genetic information includes any information acquired through an individuals genetic test or the test of her family members. This could include information about a disease or disorder in the family medical history. GINA also prohibits certain activities by employers that seek to identify or solicit information about an individuals genetic information.

Example: An employer is prohibited from requiring any information about genetic tests of the individual, past family members, requests for genetic service, etc. Further, an employer cannot request, require, or purchase genetic information with respect to an employee or the family member of an employee.