Who is responsible for enforcing the privacy provisions of genetic information under GINA?

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is responsible for enforcing the privacy provisions of the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA). GINA protects individuals from discrimination based on their genetic information in employment and health insurance contexts. The EEOC has the authority to investigate complaints related to violations of GINA, ensure compliance with its regulations, and can initiate legal action if there are breaches.

This responsibility is rooted in GINA's purpose, which is to prevent discrimination that could arise from the use of genetic information in employment decisions. The EEOC's role in enforcing civil rights laws establishes it as the appropriate agency for addressing issues related to genetic discrimination and ensuring that employees' genetic privacy is respected.

Other agencies, such as the Federal Trade Commission or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, do not have mandates that align with the provisions outlined in GINA, which is specifically related to employment and genetic information privacy. Similarly, while the Department of Labor oversees various labor-related matters, it is not the designated authority for enforcing GINA's privacy provisions.