State RegulationsCA specific✓ Verified · outline & fact-checked · Sep 2026Difficulty 2/5
Under California law (Sections 10146 and 10147(b)), an insurer may not:
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Answer & full 3-part explanation (select an option above, or peek)
Why A is correct
California prohibits insurers from discriminating against applicants based on genetic characteristics. Section 10146 prohibits using genetic characteristics to deny or limit coverage or to set different premiums, and Section 10147(b) defines "genetic characteristics" and reinforces the ban. Genetic information is protected because predictive genetic tests can reveal future disease risk unrelated to current health. Insurers may still underwrite based on actual current health, age, and medical history.
Why the other options are wrong
- B) Age is a legitimate underwriting factor and is always requested on the application.
- C) Medical records are a normal underwriting source; only genetic information is restricted.
- D) Smoking status is a valid risk factor that insurers may use to classify risks.
Memory hook
California: genes are off-limits in underwriting, but current health, age, and smoking are fair game.