This bill amends existing New Jersey law to require health insurance companies to cover lead screenings for children aged 16 years or younger, expanding the current requirement that only mandates coverage for children under the age of six. The bill specifies that lead screenings must be performed by a physician or registered professional nurse, and it outlines the responsibilities of healthcare facilities and agencies in conducting these screenings. Additionally, it mandates that if a child is found to have an elevated blood lead level, the healthcare provider must notify the child's parent or guardian and ensure that siblings or other household members who are also 16 years of age or younger are screened.

The legislation also includes provisions for the Department of Health to establish regulations regarding the lead screening process, including the age for initial screenings, intervals for follow-up testing, and methods for conducting screenings. It emphasizes the importance of public awareness campaigns to inform parents and healthcare providers about lead poisoning risks and screening requirements. By broadening the age range for lead screenings, the bill aims to enhance the early detection of lead exposure, thereby protecting the health and development of children in New Jersey.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 26:2-137.4