Bill > HB1917

This bill, known as the Lead Testing and Protection Act, mandates lead screening and related services for children under 72 months of age and expectant mothers, requiring health insurance policies to cover these screenings, diagnostic evaluations, and related services. For individuals not covered by insurance, the Department of Health (the state agency responsible for public health) will provide these services. The bill also requires the Department of Health to distribute educational materials about lead poisoning risks and screening procedures to parents of newborns, with an acknowledgment statement to be signed by parents. Importantly, hospitals, birthing facilities, and healthcare practitioners are protected from liability regarding parental actions or inactions related to lead exposure after receiving these materials. The bill also outlines specific screening schedules for children and expectant mothers, with an exception for religious objections, and directs the Department of Health to create necessary regulations to implement these provisions.