Bill > HB2741

This bill updates Oregon's public health testing regulations, specifically focusing on newborn bloodspot screening. The bill requires the Oregon Health Authority to maintain a state public health laboratory capable of analyzing biological samples and performing newborn screenings for medical conditions that, if detected early, can be mitigated or treated to prevent harmful health effects. The legislation mandates that the laboratory can conduct screenings not only for Oregon but also for other countries, federal agencies, states, tribal agencies, and healthcare practitioners. The bill establishes comprehensive rules for the newborn bloodspot screening program, including specifying which medical conditions will be tested, defining responsibilities for specimen collection and delivery, setting screening fees, and ensuring that no infant is denied screening due to a parent's inability to pay. Healthcare providers are now required to ensure appropriate specimen collection, follow up on screening results, and report confirmed medical conditions to the authority. The bill also introduces an educational component to raise awareness about the screening program, its importance, and potential medical conditions. Parents retain the right to decline screening for religious or philosophical reasons by signing an exemption form, and all screening-related information is deemed confidential. Importantly, health insurance carriers and coordinated care organizations are mandated to cover the costs of newborn bloodspot screening.

Health and Social Services

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB2741