I Dream of GINA

EEOC Issues New Workplace Poster to Include

Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008

The EEOC recently revised its "Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law" poster. The new version of the poster includes information about the prohibition against discrimination in employment based on an employee's genetic information under the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008 (GINA). On November 21, 2009, Title II of GINA, which impacts how employers handle the genetic information of their employees, will become effective. The newly revised EEOC poster reflects the requirements under GINA and the changes made by the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008.

The EEOC has provided several ways for employers to comply with the federal EEO posting requirements. Employers may choose to download and print an "EEO is the Law" Poster Supplement. This poster supplement must be posted alongside either the EEOC's September 2002 "EEO is the Law" poster or the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Program's August 2008 "EEO is the Law" poster. Employers may also choose to download and print the November 2009 "EEO is the Law" Poster. In addition, employers have the option to order new posters through the EEOC Clearinghouse by completing the EEOC Poster Request Form located on the EEOC's Web site.

If you would like to learn more about GINA or have any questions about the new EEOC workplace poster, please contact Tami Earnhart or another member of Ice Miller's Labor and Employment Practice Group.

This publication is intended for general information purposes only and does not and is not intended to constitute legal advice.  The reader must consult with legal counsel to determine how laws or decisions discussed herein apply to the reader's specific circumstances.