Bill > SB757

This bill aims to protect individuals from genetic testing discrimination in life and disability insurance by prohibiting insurance carriers from unfairly using genetic information when making insurance decisions. The bill defines a "genetic test" as an analysis of human DNA, RNA, chromosomes, proteins, or metabolites that detects genetic changes, and applies to life and disability insurance policies. Specifically, insurance carriers cannot unfairly discriminate against individuals by conditioning insurance rates, coverage, or other terms based on medical information from genetic tests that do not have a demonstrable relationship to insurance risk. The bill requires insurers to rely on actuarially sound principles when assessing risk and prohibits them from accessing sensitive genetic data without the individual's written consent or mandating genetic testing as a prerequisite for insurance eligibility. Insurance carriers are also barred from denying or limiting coverage based on whether an applicant has undergone genetic testing, and they cannot use genetic test results to reject, deny, limit, or affect insurance policies. The provisions are strictly enforced, with the insurance commissioner empowered to issue orders for violations. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and represents a significant step in protecting individuals from potential genetic discrimination in insurance.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0757?ys=2025RS