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Support the Genetic Information Non-Discrimination Act
H.R. 1227, Genetic Non-Discrimination Act
As our knowledge of genetics increases, the Foundation is concerned that inadequate safeguards are in place to protect individuals from discrimination based on their genes. There are documented cases where healthy people have been denied insurance or employment based on genetic health predictions.
As scientists begin to identify genes associated with epilepsy, the Foundation is committed to ensuring that public policy offers the strictest possible protection of personal privacy and safeguards against discrimination.
The presence of a gene should not be the basis for underwriting insurance premiums for health care, long term care or life insurance, nor should it be used to infringe on any individual's access to care and services. The Foundation is adamantly opposed to allowing employers to conduct genetic testing of employees or applicants. The presence of a gene associated with epilepsy should not be used to deny employment, housing, health care or any other goods or services to any individual.
Congress attempted to address genetic discrimination in 2003, with the Genetic Information Non-Discrimination Act, introduced by Senator Olympia Snowe. This bill passed the Senate, but there was no action in the House. In 2005, the bill was re-introduced in the Senate and passed. The House also introduced legislation, H.R. 1227, sponsored by Representative Judy Biggert. The bill is currently in committee and needs co-sponsors. There are currently 207 co-sponsors. For a complete list, visit: http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d109:HR01227:@@@P
Your help is needed in getting more co-sponsors for the House bill. The Epilepsy Foundation is asking you to contact your House members asking them to co-sponsor this important legislation.
| Sample Letter for Campaign |
Subject: Support H.R. 1227
Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,
I am writing to urge you to co-sponsor H.R 1227, The Genetic Information Non-Discrimination Act.
This legislation is crucial to ensure that adequate safeguards and protections are in place to protect individuals from discrimination based on their genes.
Instances of genetic discrimination in both insurance and employment have been documented. The presence of a gene should not be the basis for underwriting insurance premiums, nor should it be used to deny employment, housing or any other services to an individual. In addition, genetic discrimination impedes medical innovation by discouraging individuals from participating in clinical trials; thus, slowing the development of new treatments.
Thank you for your consideration of this important legislation. Please co-sponsor H.R. 1227.
Sincerely,
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