Canadian senator wins award for work on genetic discrimination

The Globe and Mail
 Monday, Jun. 27, 2016
 

A Canadian senator is the co-winner of this year’s second annual advocacy award from the American Society of Human Genetics.

Senator James Cowan has been cited along with the Canadian Coalition for Genetic Fairness for their roles in pushing a law that would prevent genetic discrimination in Canada.

Cowan was the sponsor for new legislation that would bar employers and insurance companies from demanding genetic testing – or asking to see genetic test results.

The fear of losing a job or insurance coverage has been repeatedly cited by Canadians who could potentially benefit from genetic screening but decline to be tested due to the ramifications.

The bill passed unanimously in the Senate in April and will be debated in the House of Commons this fall.

It would alter the Canadian Human Rights Act to include genetic discrimination, and it has penalties of up to five years in prison or up to a $1-million fine for those who abuse the law........