Employees Who Decline Genetic Testing Could Face Penalties Under Proposed Bill

By: Against Crony Capitalism |

Better hope your genes are all in order.

“I’m sorry Bill but we can’t promote you as your DNA test shows that you have a genetic tendency toward cancer. We as a firm just can’t take that risk. Also we need to talk about your retirement plans.”

(From The Washington Post)

Employers could impose hefty penalties on employees who decline to participate in genetic testing as part of workplace wellness programs if a bill approved by a U.S. House committee this week becomes law.

In general, employers don’t have that power under existing federal laws, which protect genetic privacy and nondiscrimination. But a bill passed Wednesday by the House Committee on Education and the Workforce would allow employers to get around those obstacles if the information is collected as part of a workplace wellness program.

Such programs — which offer workers a variety of carrots and sticks to monitor and improve their health, such as lowering cholesterol — have become increasingly popular with companies. Some offer discounts on health insurance to employees who complete health-risk assessments. Others might charge people more for smoking. Under the Affordable Care Act, employers are allowed to discount health insurance premiums by up to 30 percent — and in some cases 50 percent — for employees who voluntarily participate in a wellness program where they’re required to meet certain health targets.

And how long until the government gets its hands on this information too? Just think eugenics through the back door.

Click here for the article.