House Bills - 109th Congress

H.R.1227—The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2005

On March 10, 2005, Representative Judy Biggert (R-IL) introduced H.R. 1227, the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2005. H.R. 1227 would prohibit discrimination in health insurance and employment on the basis of predictive genetic information. More specifically, it would prohibit health insurers in both the group and individual markets from (1) using genetic information to impose enrollment restrictions or to adjust premium or contribution amounts, (2) requesting genetic testing or results except as necessary for treatment, payment, or health care operations, or (3) requesting or requiring the use of genetic information for the purposes of underwriting. It defines a genetic test as an analysis of human DNA, RNA, chromosomes, proteins, or metabolites that detects genotypes, mutations, or chromosomal changes. Additionally, H.R. 1227 would exclude an analysis of proteins or metabolites that does not detect genotypes, mutations, or chromosomal changes, or an analysis of proteins or met abolites directly related to a manifested disease, disorder, or pathological condition that could reasonably be detected by a health care professional with appropriate training and expertise in the field of medicine involved. The bill defines genetic information as information about the genetic tests of an individual or family member, or the occurrence of a disease or disorder in family members of an individual. It also specifically would exclude information about the age or sex of an individual. A companion measure, S. 306, was introduced by Senator Olympia Snowe (R-ME) and passed the Senate on February 17. H.R. 1227 has 37 cosponsors and was referred to the House Committees on Education and the Workforce, Energy and Commerce, and on Ways and Means.

Legislative Update (December 2006): Genetic Nondiscrimination