Reps. Simpson and Morrison Reintroduce Bipartisan Reauthorization of Newborn Screening Saves Lives Act
WASHINGTON—Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson and Congresswoman Kelly Morrison (D-MN) introduced H.R. 4709 – the bipartisan Newborn Screening Saves Lives Reauthorization Act. This bill will continue to support programs for five years while updating and building upon the landmark 2008 Newborn Screening Saves Lives Act, first offered by Rep. Simpson and former Rep. Lucile Roybal-Allard (D-CA).
“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 Rep. Simpson.
“As an OB-GYN, I’ve seen firsthand how newborn screening catches health conditions early and saves lives,” said Rep 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.”
Rep. Simpson has championed this effort for years. Reps. Simpson and Roybal-Allard first introduced the Newborn Screening Saves Lives Act in 2008, which established national newborn screening guidelines and provided assistance to states to improve their newborn screening programs. The bipartisan legislation was signed into law later that year. Since becoming law, Rep. Simpson has worked with former Rep. Roybal-Allard and Rep. Morrison to reauthorize this critical legislation.
The full text of the bill is available here.
