EEOC Issues Final GINA Regulations

DNA_double_helix_45.pngNearly a year after the employment provisions of the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) took effect, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has issued a final rule (pdf) implementing these sections. Title II of GINA – which took effect on November 21, 2009 – prohibits the use of genetic information in making employment decisions, restricts acquisition of genetic information by employers and other entities covered by Title II, and strictly limits the disclosure of genetic information. Title II also prohibits retaliation against employees who complain about genetic discrimination. According to the EEOC, the final rule implements the various provisions of Title II consistent with Congress’s intent, provides some additional clarification of those provisions, and explains in greater detail the sections where Congress incorporated by reference provisions from other statutes. The final rule becomes effective 60 days after its publication in the Federal Register, which is scheduled for November 9, 2010. Continue reading this entry at Littler's Washington D.C. Employment Law Update.

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