The Associated Press

Wed, May 21, 2008 (11:22 a.m.)

President Bush is backing legislation to prevent people from losing their jobs or health insurance based on genetic testing.

Bush on Wednesday signed into law an anti-discrimination measure that drew enormous support in Congress. It forbids employers and insurance companies from denying employment, promotions or health coverage to people when genetic tests show they are prone to cancer, heart disease or other ailments.

Sponsors of the legislation call it a groundbreaking protection of civil rights.

People today have far more information about their hereditary disposition to crippling afflictions. Bill sponsors said that has increased the likelihood that insurers or employers will deny people work or insurance to avoid costly risks.