Politics | discrimination Senate Passes Bill Banning Genetic Bias Law, approved 95-0, would protect people with hereditary risks By Nick McMaster Posted Apr 24, 2008 5:20 PM CDT Copied U.S. Sen. Olympia Snowe, left, R-Maine, talks to a crowd gathered at a local Republican caucus in Lewiston, Maine, on Saturday, Feb. 2, 2008. (AP Photo/Pat Wellenbach) See 1 more photo The Senate unanimously approved a bill today banning discrimination by employers and health insurers based on the results of genetic tests, the Los Angeles Times reports. Senators hope the measure will encourage testing for those who have abstained out of fear of professional or financial repercussions. The bill is expected to pass easily in the House, and President Bush supports it. "We are on the threshold of a new era, because for the first time, we act to prevent discrimination before it takes hold," said Republican Olympia Snowe, an early sponsor. "It's the first civil rights bill of the new century of life sciences," Democrat Ted Kennedy added. The bill covers only health insurance, not life or long-term care coverage. Read These Next Minneapolis shooter had a plan—and grievances. American Taylor Townsend gets an earful after her US Open win. A pregnant 17-year-old died after a road rage shooting. Belichick's girlfriend is embracing 'gold digger' idea. See 1 more photo Report an error