GINA to avoid Gattaca

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After a decade of false starts, dead ends and back-room squabbles, the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) was signed into law by President Bush today. In a nutshell, it prevents employers and insurers from using genetic data against you.

The bill's co-sponsor, Sen. Olympia Snowe (R-Maine), calls it the "the first civil rights legislation of the 21st century." Here's why it matters:

* Employers can't deny you a job because you're genetically predisposed to develop a particular disease or condition.
* Insurers can't use your genetic profile to deny coverage or raise your premiums.
* Thus protected, you can benefit from medical genetic testing without worrying about the results being used against you.
* People will be less reluctant to take part in genetic research. This will help scientists, and -- as the complex interplay between genes, environment and development is better understood -- you.
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Full article here.