On October 3, 2023, Governor Whitmer signed a set of bills requiring physicians to test, or order a test, for all children at ages one and two, along with several other requirements, with a start date of January 1, 2024.
Here are additional details from MDHHS:
Children living in geographic areas of the state determined by MDHHS to pose a high risk for lead poisoning must be tested additionally at age 4.
As well as age-based testing requirements, children should be tested at intervals determined by MDHHS if a physician determines or the parent attests that the minor is at high risk for lead poisoning.
- MDHHS is required to promulgate implementing rules. They will include the list of high- risk geographies and factors that place a child at high risk of lead poisoning.
- The testing mandates do not apply if the parent/guardian/in loco parentis objects to the testing.
- Physicians must ensure that the child’s blood lead test results are included in the child’s “certificate of Immunization”.
State Sen. John Cherry, D-Flint, who sponsored one of the lead testing bills, said it’s critical to fight against lead poisoning on several fronts, including during regular health checks. Cherry said the new law would help parents quickly learn whether their children were exposed to lead. And parents wouldn’t be hamstrung by a lack of insurance coverage.
State Rep. Helena Scott, who sponsored another lead testing bill, said a child’s immunization certificate would be updated to include a space showing whether they had been tested for lead exposure.
According to the Michigan Environmental Report from Michigan Environmental Council, Universal lead testing will stop children from slipping through the cracks. Those who test positive will be treated before poisoning’s social, mental, and physical health deteriorates.
This is a huge win for all children in Michigan.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer poses with lawmakers and advocates who have long championed lead testing for all Michigan toddlers. Gov. Whitmer had just signed such legislation into law.
Photo courtesy of the Office of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.