HB 2156 Summary

• Requires physicians treating minor patients to test for lead poisoning or order testing at intervals determined by Department of Health rules, beginning January 1, 2025.

• Mandates testing at 12 months and 24 months of age, or between 24-72 months if no previous test record exists, with additional testing at age 4 in high-risk geographic areas identified by the department.

• Requires physicians who perform lead testing to enter results in the minor patient's medical record maintained under Hawaii Revised Statutes section 325-33.

• Establishes Department of Health rulemaking authority to identify high-risk minors based on factors including residence in homes where other minors have lead poisoning diagnosis or homes built before 1978, and to determine testing intervals.

• Exempts minors whose parent, guardian, or individual in loco parentis objects to testing; allows the department to adjust age requirements or eliminate testing after five years of data review if determined unnecessary for public health and safety.