NJ A2225

Licensed health care professionals providing prenatal care must assess pregnant patients for lead exposure risk factors based on CDC and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists guidelines.

If elevated blood lead levels are detected, providers must notify patients in writing with plain-language explanations and ensure children or household members under age six are screened for lead exposure.

Patients may decline lead screening in writing, and screening is not required if another provider has already completed testing.

Laboratories must report lead screening results to the Department of Health, local health departments, and the ordering provider within five business days.

All screening records will be maintained in the state's central database with confidentiality protections, allowing only de-identified statistical reports to be released.