U.S. Rep. Kelly Morrison Introduces Bill to Reauthorize Crucial Newborn Screening Program
Bipartisan bill will allow vital health screening for newborns
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Kelly Morrison (MN-03) introduced the bipartisan Newborn Screening Saves Lives Reauthorization Act, which will renew and strengthen newborn screening programs that detect life-threatening and life-altering health conditions.
Over 15 million children in the United States have rare diseases, and newborn screening programs allow for early diagnosis and treatment. The Newborn Screening Saves Lives Act was first signed into law in 2008, and saves or improves the lives of thousands of newborn babies a year. This bipartisan bill is co-led by U.S. Representatives Mike Simpson (ID-02), Kim Schrier (WA-08), and Nick Langworthy (NY-23).
“As an OB-GYN, I’ve seen firsthand how newborn screening catches health conditions early and saves lives,” said Congresswoman Morrison.” Newborn screening reduces health care costs for families, increases knowledge about treatable diseases, and makes our kids healthier and safer. I’m proud to partner with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to reauthorize this life-saving program.”
Watch Rep. Morrison’s video on the bill’s introduction HERE:
“For years, the Newborn Screening Saves Lives Act has provided parents with additional resources, enabling early identification and treatment for their babies. Reauthorizing this bipartisan legislation will continue to save lives, support families, and reduce long-term healthcare costs. As a former dentist, I know firsthand the value of early diagnosis and treatment, which is why I've been proud to champion efforts to reauthorize this program. This legislation has proven to be successful in enhancing these screening programs nationwide, and I am grateful for the leadership on both sides of the aisle working to address this important issue,” said Congressman Simpson.
“As a pediatrician, I’ve taken care of patients whose conditions were discovered on their newborn screen. And because we caught the diseases early, they are doing great!” said Congresswoman Schrier. “I am proud to introduce this legislation with a bipartisan group of my colleagues that will provide the essential tools to screen babies for rare but treatable conditions and save lives.”
“I’m proud to co-lead the Newborn Screening Saves Lives Reauthorization Act because every baby deserves a healthy start and every parent deserves the peace of mind that comes from early detection of life-threatening conditions,” said Congressman Langworthy. “Last year, I successfully advocated for Krabbe Disease to be added to the federal newborn screening recommendations - an important step in catching rare, life-threatening conditions before it's too late. As medical science advances, we must ensure our screening programs keep pace to protect the most vulnerable among us. This reauthorization will undoubtedly save lives and spare countless families from unthinkable heartbreak.”
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