This bill, SB 3179, aims to enhance protections for individuals regarding the use of genetic information in the insurance industry. It prohibits life insurers, disability insurers, and long-term care insurers from using genetic information to determine eligibility, set premium rates, or impose preexisting condition exclusions. Specifically, the bill introduces new sections to the General Laws that prevent insurers from canceling, limiting, or denying coverage based on genetic information unless there is a clinical diagnosis or manifestation of a disease.

The bill clarifies that insurers may still review an individual's medical records and inquire about family health history, but they cannot require or solicit genetic information, use genetic test results, or consider an individual's decisions or actions related to genetic testing in their insurance decisions.

Additionally, the title of Chapter 27-34.2 is amended to reflect the inclusion of disability income protection coverage alongside long-term care insurance. The act is designed to take effect upon passage.