New Laws in Michigan Mandate Blood Lead Testing for Children
LANSING, Mich. – In a significant move to combat lead poisoning, Michigan has enacted new legislation requiring blood lead testing for children at 12 and 24 months of age. This initiative, effective from October 2023, aims to identify and address lead exposure early, as lead poisoning poses severe health risks to children, impacting their learning, behavior, and overall development.
Under Public Act 146 of 2023, all children will undergo universal blood lead testing at prescribed ages. The results of these tests must be documented on their immunization records as mandated by Public Act 145 of 2023. If the tests are not recorded, children between 24 to 72 months must undergo testing. Notably, these blood lead tests are covered under the Affordable Care Act, ensuring families incur no extra costs.
Lead exposure can occur from various sources, including deteriorating paint, contaminated soil, and outdated plumbing. With elevated blood lead levels (3.5 micrograms per deciliter and above), it becomes imperative to identify and eliminate the source of exposure.
In cases where children are found to have high lead levels, they may qualify for nursing case management services, where trained professionals provide guidance to minimize lead exposure. Furthermore, families may be eligible for the Lead Safe Home Program, which assists in identifying and mitigating lead hazards based on specific criteria, including income and Medicaid status.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the risks of lead exposure and the importance of testing. For more information on lead hazards and preventive measures, visit Michigan’s official website.
This proactive legislation underscores Michigan’s commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of its youngest residents against the dangers of lead poisoning.
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