This bill amends the Newborn Child Testing Act of September 9, 1965, to enhance the Newborn Child Screening and Follow-up Program in Pennsylvania. Specifically, it adds Duchenne muscular dystrophy to the list of diseases for which newborns will be screened. The amendment aims to assist healthcare providers in determining the necessary treatments or services to prevent intellectual or physical disabilities and potential death in affected infants.

The new legal language inserted into the act specifies that the screening tests for newborn children will now include Duchenne muscular dystrophy as part of the program established by the department, with the approval of the Newborn Screening and Follow-up Technical Advisory Board. This change reflects a commitment to improving early detection and intervention for serious genetic conditions in newborns. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.