When an employer discriminates against their employees as a result of the employee’s genetic information, this is known as genetic discrimination. To learn more about genetic discrimination, continue reading. If you believe that you are the victim of genetic discrimination in the workplace, it is important that you reach out to an experienced Atlanta genetic information discrimination attorney. Our legal team is prepared to fight for your rights as an employee in Georiga. Here are some questions you may have about the Genetic Discrimination Act and how it may impact you as an employee in Georiga:

What is the Genetic Discrimination Act?

Genetic information is defined as the following under the Genetic Discrimination Act:

• Any documentation regarding your genetic results
• Manifestation of a disorder or disease in an employee’s family member
• Results of family member’s tests

It is prohibited for certain businesses and other entities to obtain genetic information from their employees or their employees’ family members. You may have a valid claim against your employer if a business obtains genetic information from you or your family member.

However, the following are exceptions to this law:

• If an employee provides genetic information when requesting to take leave under the Family Medical Leave Act to care for a family member who is ill and the employer reviews that information
• If an employer accidentally acquires genetic information. This may occur if another employee tells the employer this information.
• If genetic information is available to the general public and the employer finds this information.
• Applying for or working for certain law enforcement agencies may require employers to obtain this information in DNA testing.
• Employees who use a business’s health services voluntarily may waive their right to protected genetic information from their employer.
• An employee voluntarily submitting to a testing or monitoring program to measure biological impacts that toxic substances present in the workplace may result in their employer receiving access to their genetic information.

What are the most common examples of genetic discrimination in the workplace?

The following behaviors due to genetic information are the most common example of genetic discrimination:

• Firing
• Layoffs
• Compensation
• Demotions
• Training
• Job assignments
• Fringe benefits

If you believe that your employer has accessed your genetic information and you have been subjected to any of the above behaviors as a result, you likely have a valid genetic discrimination claim. To learn more about how you can take action against your employer, give our Atlanta employment discrimination attorney a call today.

CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED GEORGIA FIRM

If you need help with an employment law matter in the state of Georgia, you can count on Ben Barrett Law to effectively represent your interests. With over 30 years of experience, Attorney Barrett has the skill and experience necessary to help you navigate the complexities of any employment law matter you may be facing. To discuss your case with a legal team you can trust, please do not hesitate to contact Ben Barrett Law today.