A Reuters report demonstrates how the law changes with changing times. These days that often means changing with advances in medicine and technology.  A bill that will prevent discrimination based upon a person's genetic makeup, HR 493, has overwhelmingly passed the House.  Senate consideration is next.  The White House backs the measure, while the United States Chamber of Commerce opposes it.

New York Democratic Rep. Louise Slaughter, who sponsored the bill with Illinois Republican Rep. Judy Biggert (news, bio, voting record), said it will eliminate a new form of discrimination and remove people's reluctance to take part in genetic research and testing.

Rep. Slaughter's press release is available on her web site.

The bill includes sections that govern the employment practices of employers, employment agencies, labor unions, and training programs.

The Chamber of Commerce, according to the Reuters story, says that employers do not discriminate on the basis of genetic testing.  It fears the imposition of new regulations and damages in lawsuits.

We will keep you advised as HR 493 advances through the legislative process.