The bill amends the Public Health Code to enhance the lead poisoning prevention program established by the Department of Health. Key components of the program include a comprehensive plan to prevent childhood lead poisoning, an educational outreach initiative targeting various stakeholders such as healthcare providers and parents, and a technical assistance system for managing cases of lead poisoning. The bill mandates that all blood lead level test results be reported to the department, and upon receiving notice of an elevated blood lead level, the department must contact the local health department or physician. Additionally, it requires referrals to the Early On program for children under three years of age with elevated levels.

The bill also stipulates that the department must report annually to the legislature on the number of children under six screened for lead poisoning and those confirmed with elevated blood lead levels. This report will compare current rates with previous years and recommend improvements for compliance with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Furthermore, the department is required to prepare an annual report detailing expenditures related to the lead poisoning prevention program, including funding sources and usage, which must be made available to the public.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 333.5474