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ARTICLE · 23 JUNE 2017

Scary As Dinosaurs: Californias Genetic Information Discrimination Code

Seyfarth Shaw LLP
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For most of us, exposure to "DNA" dates back to high school science class or dinosaur theme park movies. Many of us would not know how to begin to explain the intricacies of the human genome...

United StatesEmployment and HR
Marjorie Soto
Marjorie Soto
Kristen Peters
Kristen Peters
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For most of us, exposure to "DNA" dates back to high school science class or dinosaur theme park movies. Many of us would not know how to begin to explain the intricacies of the human genome, including how different nucleotides form the basis of DNA, or how they cause characteristics in multi-cellular organisms. Luckily, for purposes of California employment law, all that you need to understand are the basics of what is permissible and impermissible when it comes to the use of genetic information for employment purposes in California.

What's the Rule?

Since January 1, 2012, the California Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act ("CalGINA") has prohibited genetic discrimination in employment, housing, mortgage lending, education, and public accommodations. CalGINA provides broader protections for employees than does the federal Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act ("GINA") of 2008, which is limited to health insurance and employment discrimination

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