What is Genetic Information Harassment?
In Wisconsin, you cannot be harassed at work because of your genetic information. Genetic information harassment occurs when offensive comments or actions are frequently being made by someone in the workplace about the your genetic information. The harasser can be your supervisor, a supervisor in another area, a co-worker, or someone who is not even an employee, such as a client or customer.
What is Genetic Information?
There are rules that prohibit your company from gathering genetic information about you or a family members. Genetic information includes all of the following:
- Information about your genetic tests
- Information about the genetic tests of your family members
- Information about the diseases or disorders in your family (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.
- Information about genetic services and tests you have ever requested or received
- Information about clinical research, that includes genetic services, in which you or your family has participated
- Genetic information about your unborn child, or the unborn child of your family members
- Genetic information about an embryo legally held by you or your family member using assisted reproductive technology (ART)
What are Genetic Tests?
According to the EEOC, “tests used to determine whether an individual has a certain genetic variant associated with an increased risk of acquiring a disease in the future are genetic tests.” This means, genetic tests include those which analyze the following:
- DNA
- RNA
- Chromosomes
- Proteins or metabolites that detect genotypes, mutations or chromosomal changes
Genetic tests that analyze DNA, RNA, chromosomes, and proteins or metabolites are used to determine the presence of things such as:
- BRCA1 & BRCA2 Genes – Known as the “breast cancer genes”
- Huntington’s Disease
- Cystic Fibrosis
- Sickle Cell Anemia
- Amniocentesis
- Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Cholesterol tests, HIV tests, tests to determine the presence of drugs and alcohol, or tests for infectious diseases transmitted through food handling are examples of tests not covered by Title II of the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA).
The Walcheske & Luzi, LLC Difference
At Walcheske & Luzi, LLC it is our pledge to provide open and honest advice, taking the time to listen, counsel, and advise. We will work closely with you to determine if you are the victim of genetic information harassment. Tell us about your genetic information harassment case, we’re ready to help.
Check out our testimonials section, where former clients have described their past experiences with us.