Subd. 1. Definitions.
For the purposes of this section, the following terms have the meanings given them in this subdivision.
- (a) "Genetic test" means the analysis of human DNA, RNA, chromosomes, proteins, or certain metabolites in order to detect disease-related genotypes or mutations. Tests for metabolites fall within the definition of genetic test when an excess or deficiency of the metabolites indicates the presence of a mutation or mutations. Administration of metabolic tests by an employer or employment agency that are not intended to reveal the presence of a mutation does not violate this section, regardless of the results of the tests. Test results revealing a mutation are, however, subject to this section.
- (b) "Employer" means any person having one or more employees in Minnesota, and includes the state and any political subdivisions of the state.
- (c) "Employee" means a person who performs services for hire in Minnesota for an employer, but does not include independent contractors.
(d) "Protected genetic information" means:
- (1) information about a person's genetic test; or
- (2) information about a genetic test of a blood relative of a person.
Subd. 2. Use of protected genetic information prohibited.
(a) No employer or employment agency shall directly or indirectly:
- (1) administer a genetic test or request, require, or collect protected genetic information regarding a person as a condition of employment; or
- (2) affect the terms or conditions of employment or terminate the employment of any person based on protected genetic information.
- (b) No person shall provide or interpret for any employer or employment agency protected genetic information on a current or prospective employee.
Subd. 3. Penalties.
Any person aggrieved by a violation of this section may bring a civil action, in which the court may award:
- (1) up to three times the actual damages suffered due to the violation;
- (2) punitive damages;
- (3) reasonable costs and attorney fees; and
- (4) injunctive or other equitable relief as the court may deem appropriate.