In 2016, the Parliament of Canada debated bill S-201, the Genetic Non-Discrimination Act, which would ensure that all Canadians can benefit from genetics-based clinical advances without fear of genetic discrimination. ASHG has long supported the establishment of strong protections against genetic discrimination worldwide, and as such, advocated in favor of S-201. The bill was signed... Read More
ASHG supports state licensure of certified genetic counselors to help ensure that the public has access to genetic and genomic services provided by qualified health professionals. The rapidly expanding use of genomics in healthcare decisions will increase the need for qualified genetics professionals, and genetic counselors play an important role in treating patients and families.... Read More
In 2015, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) invited comment on its draft guidance for the regulatory oversight of laboratory-developed tests (LDTs). With a focus on genetic and genomic testing, ASHG submitted comments on the proposed regulatory oversight of such tests. Related: Comments Submitted in Response to FDA’s Draft Guidance: Framework for Regulatory Oversight... Read More
ASHG supports the teaching of evolution in public schools, and is disappointed by Tennessee’s enactment of a bill that weakens K-12 science instruction. House Bill 38, which became law in April 2012, undermined the teaching of evolution and several other scientific topics that form the basis of public scientific literacy. Related: ASHG Statement on Tennessee... Read More
In 2010, ASHG issued a policy statement outlining guiding principles related to patenting and licensing in the genetic testing arena. These principles address protection of intellectual property, quality of testing, and access to testing. Related: Guiding Principles on Protection of Intellectual Property: Patenting and Licensing in the Genetic Testing Arena (April 2010) Read More