EEOC Announces Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for the Genetic Information Non-Discrimination Act

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced that it will seek public comment on proposed regulations implementing the employment provisions of the Genetic Information Non-Discrimination Act (GINA). The proposed regulations are expected to be published in tomorrow’s edition of the Federal Register. Comments will be due 60 days after the publication date.

GINA – which, among other things, prohibits employment discrimination based on genetic information, bars the intentional acquisition of genetic information about applicants and employees, and imposes strict confidentiality requirements – mandates that the EEOC issue implementing regulations by May 21 of this year. Title II of GINA, which governs the employment provisions of the Act, takes effect on November 21, 2009.

For more information on GINA, see Littler’s ASAP: Genetic Antidiscrimination Law Creates New Compliance Challenges for Employers by: Philip L. Gordon and Jennifer L. Mora.

Information contained in this publication is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or opinion, nor is it a substitute for the professional judgment of an attorney.