Number: RL33832
Title: Genetic Testing: Scientific Background for Policymakers
Authors: Amanda K. Sarata, Domestic Social Policy Division 
Abstract: In the 110th Congress, several pieces of legislation have been introduced that relate to genetic and genomic technology and testing. These include bills addressing genetic discrimination in health insurance and employment, personalized medicine, the patenting of genetic material, and the quality of laboratory tests. The introduction of these bills signals the growing importance of the public policy issues surrounding the clinical and public health implications of new genetic technology. As genetic technologies proliferate and are increasingly used to guide clinical treatment, these public policy issues are likely to continue to garner considerable attention. Understanding the basic scientific concepts underlying genetics and genetic testing may help facilitate the development of more effective public policy in this area.
Pages: 10
Date: January 30, 2008