Political Quotes

“the completion of the human genome project 5 years ago made it possible to identify specific genes that trigger diseases later in life. However, out of at fear of losing their jobs or their health insurance, studies have shown that many Americans forego the potential health benefits of genetic testing. While involved in a course at the University of Pennsylvania on genetic discrimination, the position paper Dr. Ruth Cowan's students presented to me reemphasized that this concern of genetic discrimination risks stifling further scientific advances in genetic based research. No genetic nondiscrimination laws in health care, such as in my State of Pennsylvania, may mean foregoing cures based upon genetic research. With a young daughter who underwent treatment for a malignant brain tumor recently, I understand why, as scientific technology advances, discrimination cannot grow with it, or we harm not only the quality of life, but life itself. With State laws varying in how to maintain the privacy of genetic information, the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act will set a national standard and take the first step toward advancing the scientific and health benefits of genetic research and protecting the genetic privacy of Americans. I urge all my colleagues to support this bill.”