October 29, 2009

Job Applicants May Have to Give DNA

University of Akron Ohio employment application process includes the possibility that a DNA sample may be requested so that a federal criminal background check can be conducted. The requirement may violate the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act. The University argues that there are positions at the institution, which require background checks to be performed. The University has not provided information on privacy questions regarding its collection, retention, sharing, and use of genetic information. How long DNA samples would be retained and who would have access to the information are not clear. DNA information can be used to determine whether a person has a predisposition for a medical condition as well as other personal information about the subject.

Want A Job In Akron? Hand Over Your DNA, Declan McCullagh, CBS News Blogs