Journal Facts

Journal
Journal of Individual Employment Rights
ISSN
1055-7512 (print) 1541-3799 (electronic)
Volume
10
Issue
4
Date
4/1/2002

Article Facts

Title
GENETIC DISCRIMINATION IN THE WORKPLACE: THE ADA AND BEYOND
DOI
10.2190/B9XN-X4T8-VL1B-X96C
Authors
  • BEVERLY L. LITTLE
  • ANDREW MAKEE
Pages
299-308
Online Date
07/23/2004

Article Links

GENETIC DISCRIMINATION IN THE WORKPLACE: THE ADA AND BEYOND

BEVERLY L. LITTLE
ANDREW MAKEE

DOI: 10.2190/B9XN-X4T8-VL1B-X96C

Abstract

Recent medical breakthroughs in medicine, such as the Human Genome Project, allow scientists to identify changes in a person's genetic material or screen them for inherited traits or tendencies. Known as "markers," these predispositions toward certain diseases predict the development of future diseases. This knowledge not only has the potential for the development of medical treatment, it also has the potential to allow someone's genetic makeup to be known by other persons, who may make decisions affecting that person's future. This article examines the current status of genetic information in the employment arena. It discusses legislative actions and judicial rulings that address the questions being raised by the parties involved in this issue, focusing on the efficacy of Americans with Disabilities Act to protect employees' rights.

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