New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A00944

Introduced
1/8/25  
Refer
1/8/25  
Report Pass
2/4/25  
Refer
2/4/25  

Caption

Relates to the definition of elevated blood lead levels; provides that elevated lead levels means a blood lead level greater than or equal to 3.5 micrograms of lead per deciliter of whole blood or such lower blood lead level as may be established by the department of health pursuant to rule or regulation.

Summary

Bill A00944 proposes to amend the public health law in New York by redefining 'elevated lead levels' in blood. Specifically, it lowers the threshold for elevated blood lead levels from 5 micrograms to 3.5 micrograms per deciliter of whole blood. This change aims to enhance the state's lead poisoning prevention program, ensuring that more individuals are identified and treated for lead exposure at lower blood lead levels. Additionally, the bill empowers the Department of Health to establish further regulations regarding lead levels as necessary.

Impact

The bill's passage would result in a significant change in how elevated blood lead levels are defined in New York State law. By lowering the threshold, it is expected to increase the number of individuals identified as needing intervention for lead exposure. This could lead to more comprehensive public health initiatives and resources allocated towards lead poisoning prevention and treatment, potentially impacting healthcare providers, public health officials, and affected families.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A00944 appears to be positive, as indicated by the unanimous support in the Assembly Health Committee, where it received 23 votes in favor with no opposition. This suggests a strong consensus among committee members regarding the importance of addressing lead exposure and its health implications.

Contention

While there is currently no recorded opposition to the bill, potential points of contention may arise regarding the implementation of the new regulations by the Department of Health and the adequacy of resources to support increased testing and intervention efforts. Stakeholders such as healthcare providers and public health advocates may have differing views on the feasibility of the new threshold and its implications for public health policy.

Companion Bills

NY S01816

Same As Relates to the definition of elevated blood lead levels; provides that elevated lead levels means a blood lead level greater than or equal to 3.5 micrograms of lead per deciliter of whole blood or such lower blood lead level as may be established by the department of health pursuant to rule or regulation.

Previously Filed As

NY S01816

Relates to the definition of elevated blood lead levels; provides that elevated lead levels means a blood lead level greater than or equal to 3.5 micrograms of lead per deciliter of whole blood or such lower blood lead level as may be established by the department of health pursuant to rule or regulation.

NY S06105

Relates to the definition of elevated blood lead levels; provides that elevated lead levels means a blood lead level greater than or equal to 3.5 micrograms of lead per deciliter of whole blood or such lower blood lead level as may be established by the department of health pursuant to rule or regulation.

NY S07582

Requires the recommendation to a parent for blood lead level screenings of their child when a health care provider finds high lead levels in the blood of such child; directs the department of health to conduct an environmental investigation when a child is found to have high levels of lead in their blood.

NY HB4864

Health: children; definition of elevated blood lead level; modify. Amends sec. 5456 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.5456).

NY HB4867

Children: health; referral of certain children with elevated blood lead levels to the early on program administered by the department of lifelong education, advancement, and potential; require. Amends sec. 5474 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.5474).

NY A00826

Requires the recommendation to a parent for blood lead level screenings of his or her child when a health care provider finds high lead levels in the blood of such child; directs the department of health to conduct an environmental investigation when a child is found to have high levels of lead in his or her blood.

NY A07224

Requires the recommendation to a parent for blood lead level screenings of their child when a health care provider finds high lead levels in the blood of such child; directs the department of health to conduct an environmental investigation when a child is found to have high levels of lead in their blood.

NY S1005

Allows a clinical laboratory, that is incorporated in the State of Rhode Island, to analyze blood samples, from children under the age of six (6) years, for blood lead levels.

NY H6305

Allows a clinical laboratory, that is incorporated in the State of Rhode Island, to analyze blood samples, from children under the age of six (6) years, for blood lead levels.

NY H7191

Allows a clinical laboratory, that is incorporated in the State of Rhode Island, to analyze blood samples, from children under the age of six (6) years, for blood lead levels.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.