A couple weekends ago, while attending a conference on polycystic kidney disease, I learned of a bill pending Senate approval that is being blocked by Senator Coburn of Oklahoma. GINA, the Genetic Information Nondisclosure Act, would make discriminatory practices using genetics illegal by prohibiting health insurers from discriminating against any individual because of a genetic predisposition to develop a disease in the future. It also bars employers from using genetic information for hiring, firing, or other decisions. The person presenting information about GINA was a pilot with a major commercial airline. Upon learning he had ADPKD, his company grounded him and will no longer let him fly even though he has absolutely no symptoms at this time and takes no medications. If passed, this bill would provide protection for Rita and countless other people that have been diagnosed with a genetic disorder. As genetic research continues, a great many of us may be identified as such. Please sign a petition to urge Senator Coburn to release his hold on the bill and let it come to the Senate floor where it is likely to be approved. Both the house of representatives and the president have approved the bill. http://votelouise.com/page/petition/GINA | 
