Genetic Information

The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008 prohibits the use of genetic information in making decisions related to any terms, conditions, or privileges of employment (e.g., hiring, firing, and opportunities for advancement); restricts employers from requesting, requiring, or purchasing genetic information, with limited exceptions; and requires employers to keep any genetic information they have about applicants or employees confidential.

Genetic information includes information about an individual's genetic tests and/or the genetic tests of an individual's family members, as well as information about the manifestation of a disease or disorder in an individual or their family members (i.e. family medical history). Family medical history is included in the definition of genetic information because it is often used to determine whether someone has an increased risk of getting a disease, disorder, or condition in the future. Genetic information also includes an individual's request for, or receipt of, genetic services, or the participation in clinical research that includes genetic services by the individual or a family member of the individual, and the genetic information of a fetus carried by an individual or by a pregnant woman who is a family member of the individual and the genetic information of any embryo legally held by the individual or family member using assisted reproductive technology.

If you believe you have been subjected to genetic information discrimination or have witnessed genetic information discrimination, please contact the Office of Equal Opportunity & Academic Compliance at (913) 588-5964, or click here to file a complaint online.

Genetic Information Discrimination Law:

Federal Law on discrimination in employment: Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act