Genetic Nondiscrimination Bill Stalled In Congress
The 108th Congress failed to pass legislation protecting against genetic discrimination. Although the Senate passed a bill (S.1053) 95-0 in October 2003, and President Bush supported such legislation, the House has not moved any such bill to the floor for consideration.
Without protective legislation in place, some patients fear having their conditions known to insurers, who might use it as a reason to deny coverage. As a result, these patients might forego testing that would be useful in making decisions related to their health and family planning. Other may seek anonymous genetic testing, according to a recent article in the San Jose Mercury News, which reported that some patients are being tested under assumed names, with their doctor’s help.
To call your Senator or Representative to urge their support of this legislation, you can call the Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121. Ask to be transferred to your Representative or Senator's office. If you do not know who your representative is, you can go to www.congress.org, enter your zip code, and find a list of your federally elected officials.
