Deuter-backed Measure Modernizing Newborn Screening Signed into Law

WESTMONT, Ill. —A measure backed by state Rep. Marti Deuter, D-Elmhurst, that will modernize Illinois’ newborn disease screening process was signed into law last week.

Senate Bill 3049 allows the renamed Universal Newborn Screening Advisory Committee to review additional medical conditions with FDA-authorized treatments and suggest they be added to the state’s screening protocols. Ultimate decision making will remain with the Illinois Department of Public Health.

“This program has proven to be instrumental in the early identification of serious but treatable medical conditions in newborns,” Deuter said. “This legislation will allow us to update our processes and ensure the health and safety of our state’s newborns.”

The federal advisory body that traditionally evaluated new newborn screening conditions was recently disbanded, leaving states responsible for ensuring continued review and protection for newborns.

The bill will allow Illinois to stay up-to-date on the best practices for newborn screenings and implement new guidelines without changing what is currently screened for today.

“We are trying to keep Illinois at the forefront of newborn screenings and give the state the flexibility it needs to best serve newborns and their families,” Deuter said. “Earlier detection means earlier treatment, and the sooner we can give families a more complete assessment of their kids’ overall health, the better.”

Senate Bill 3049 passed the House and Senate with unanimous support, and was signed into law by Governor Pritzker last week.