Along with the powerful new tools of genomics, there is renewed emphasis on ethical, legal and social implications, especially with recent developments in genetic research and testing. Attention to ethical issues evoked by genetic testing has not kept pace with biotechnological developments.

Benefits of genetic testing, discussed in the previous lesson, must be balanced against the risk of genetic discrimination by employers, insurers, schools, and society. The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) that President Bush signed on May 21, 2008 protects people from genetic discrimination in employment. The law has many shortcomings, though. It does not cover life, disability, and long-term care insurance. It covers just health insurance. In addition, GINA does not apply when a person at risk for a genetic disease develops symptoms of that disease (e.g., breast cancer or Huntington’s disease).