GINA - Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act 

 

4. What steps should an employer take to ensure it doesn't violate GINA?

Here are some best practices worth implementing.

• Add genetic testing to the list of characteristics upon which the company will not discriminate, such as those listed in discrimination and harassment policies, on equal employment opportunity statements, etc.
• Check that pre-employment exams exclude genetic information from the results.
• Never require applicants or employees to disclose their family medical history, unless necessary to comply with state and family medical leave laws.
• Audit the administration of employee health benefits to determine if changes are necessary.
• Screen all employee medical information upon receipt to determine if it contains genetic information, and, if so, store accordingly.
• Implement policies and procedures to prevent the inadvertent disclosure of genetic information.

Back To FAQs