The deservedly well-publicized arrest of the Golden State Killer last fall was a coup for law enforcement, and a marvelous use of modern technology. Sequencing the DNA profile of material left by the killer at a crime scene 40 years ago, then scouring publicly available databases for a genetic match, and ultimately making the arrest
Genetic Information Non-Discrimination Act
Privacy Tip #176 – Sharing Your Genetic Information With Private Companies
By Linn Foster Freedman on
Posted in Privacy Tips
I had very interesting conversations with both of my classes in the last week over the sharing of genetic information in the context of learning about the Genetic Information Non-Discrimination Act (GINA). GINA generally prohibits employers and insurers from using genetic information to discriminate in employment or insurance underwriting.
People mistaken believe that GINA protects…
House Bill Would Allow Employers to Require and Access Genetic Testing Results
By Linn Foster Freedman on
Posted in Data Privacy
House bill HR 1313, introduced by Representative Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.), proposes to allow companies to require employees to undergo genetic testing, then allow employers to see the results, and impose financial penalties on any employees who request to opt out of the requirement.
The bill, which was before the House Committee on Education and the…
BNV Home Care Agency Settles GINA violation for $125,000
By Linn Foster Freedman on
Posted in Enforcement + Litigation
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) recently announced that it has entered into a settlement with BNV Home Care Agency, Inc. (BNV) for $125,000 for violations of the Genetic Information Non-Discrimination Act (GINA).
According to the EEOC, BNV violated GINA by engaging in the “unlawful practice of collecting employees’ and applicants’ genetic information by…