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Genetic Testing as a Condition of Employment

RI Employment Genetic Testing Law

Genetic · Employees

Bars employers, employment agencies and licensing agencies from requiring or administering genetic tests, from penalizing workers or applicants who refuse to take a test, give family health history or reveal results, and from using or revealing genetic information against them.

Where

Rhode Island

Citation

R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 28-6.7-1 to 28-6.7-5

Status

In force

Last amended

2002-06-08

Enforced by

Courts via employee or applicant civil actions

People can sue

Yes

Penalties

In a civil action a prevailing applicant or employee may recover actual and punitive damages, reasonable attorney's fees and costs, and injunctive relief (§ 28-6.7-3). Waivers are void (§ 28-6.7-5).

Applies to

• Employers of any size in Rhode Island, including the state and political subdivisions
• Employment agencies and state or local occupational licensing agencies
• Any person who sells or interprets genetic tests for an employer or licensing agency