Alter-Abled News

Via an email I received today comes good news regarding your genetic information...

HR 493, the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) passed in the House 420 to 3 and today unanimously passed the Senate in a vote of 95 to 0. The bill, H.R.493 prohibits discrimination on the basis of genetic information with respect to health insurance and employment. The bill provisions:

Prohibits employers and insurers from discriminating based on genetic information
Insurers may not deny coverage or raise premiums based on genetic information
Forbids discrimination against anyone based on personal or familial genetic information
Prohibits labor organizations from denying membership based on genetic information
Prohibits the disclosure or purchase of genetic information by health plans and insurers.This legislation will now go to the President who has stated he will sign it and therefore become law. This legislation was first introduced back in 1997. The HHT Foundation has signed onto every petition and letter recommending the passage of this bill. This is a monumental accomplishment and a huge accomplishment for all HHT families!

Great news for a change regarding your medical history and privacy.