The bill would prohibit insurers from requiring genetic testing for underwriting insurance
SACRAMENTO, CA – Today, AB 1798 passed the Assembly Insurance Committee.
This bill would protect access to life and non-health disability insurance by banning the use of genetic testing for underwriting purposes. This bill would also fortify sensitive personal information by adding privacy protections.
Genetic testing should lead to better health, not higher premiums, reduced benefits, or denial of coverage. Individuals should not be penalized because they proactively chose to undertake genetic testing, and individuals should not be discriminated against due to their genetic traits.
“If we agree that people should not pay more or be denied coverage because of who they are, then we should also agree they should not be penalized for what’s written in their DNA,” said Assemblywoman Lori D. Wilson.
Melanie Lendnal, Senior Vice President of Public Policy & Advocacy at the ALS Association, testified in support of the bill.
“We are in strong support of AB 1798 because we believe that no one should have to choose between their physical health and their financial future,” Lendnal said.
AB 1798 is sponsored by California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, who also testified today in support.
The bill now heads to the Assembly Privacy and Consumer Protection Committee, where it will be heard Tuesday, April 21.
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