Genetic tests can be used to deny life insurance in South Dakota. Lawmakers want to change that.
Genetic tests can identify the likelihood that someone could someday develop any number of life-threatening afflictions, including many forms of cancer.
Scientists and medical professionals tout the ability to examine DNA and identify potential health risks as a technological advancement that has the potential to keep people alive longer and improve life for all human beings.
But hereditary information revealed through a DNA test shouldn't be used to keep someone from obtaining certain insurance coverage like long-term care insurance or life insurance. At least, that's what backers of Senate Bill 178 hope to accomplish by prohibiting those types of businesses from setting premiums or denying coverage based on DNA test results.
The bill would also prohibit providers of life insurance or long-term care insurance from making someone submit to such a test to obtain coverage.
Read more: https://www.argusleader.com/story/news/2021/02/08/genetic-tests-can-used-deny-life-insurance-south-dakota-lawmakers-want-change-that-dna-rights-senate/4438323001/
