This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to require the Bureau for Public Health to include testing for mucopolysaccharidosis type 1 (MPS1) in the list of diseases for which newborns must be screened. The current law mandates testing for several conditions, including phenylketonuria, galactosemia, and hypothyroidism, among others. The bill adds MPS1 to this list, along with congenital adrenal hyperplasia, cystic fibrosis, and biotinidase deficiency, while removing the requirement for testing for certain other conditions.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that positive test results must be reported promptly to the Bureau for Public Health and ensures that newborn screenings are covered by various health insurance programs, including the Public Employees Insurance Agency and Medicaid. The Bureau is also tasked with proposing rules to facilitate medical assistance for affected children and to establish payment mechanisms for the screenings. This legislative change aims to improve early detection and treatment options for MPS1, a metabolic disorder that, while not curable, can be managed effectively if diagnosed early.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-22-3