North Dakota Senate Bill 2172 Summary

• Requires pulse oximetry screening for critical congenital heart defects for all newborns before discharge from hospitals with birthing centers in North Dakota.

• Allows parents to object to the screening requirement and opt out if they choose.

• Directs the state department of health to notify medical staff and facilities providing birthing services of this screening requirement.

• Specifies that pulse oximetry screening is not classified as a test under section 25-17-05 and congenital heart defects detected are not considered metabolic or genetic diseases under chapter 25-17.

• Passed the Senate 47-0 and the House 69-23 during the 2013 legislative session.