This bill amends Chapter 9 of Title 39 in the Idaho Code, focusing on health and safety regulations concerning newborns. It repeals several existing sections related to the duties of health officers and the instillation of germicides in newborns' eyes, specifically Sections 39-902, 39-903, 39-905, 39-906, 39-907, and 39-910. In their place, new sections are introduced, including Section 39-902, which mandates reporting of inflammation of the eyes or other reportable diseases in newborns, and Section 39-903, which requires the application of ocular antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent gonococcal ophthalmia neonatorum. Additionally, the bill clarifies language in Section 39-904 regarding birth reports and revises Section 39-909 to include required tests for newborns.

Furthermore, the bill introduces Section 39-906, which outlines the procedures for dried blood specimen collection for newborn screening, detailing the timing and responsibilities for both hospital and home births. It also specifies the conditions that must be tested for and establishes protocols for reporting results. The bill declares that certain administrative rules related to newborn screenings will be null and void after July 1, 2025, and it includes a declaration of emergency, making the act effective on that date.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 39-902, 39-903, 39-905, 39-906, 39-907, 39-910, 39-904, 39-909, 39-912