HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 59

(By Delegates Michael, Doyle, Leach, Campbell, Proudfoot, Ashley, R. M. Thompson, Anderson, H. White, Carmichael, Mezzatesta, Stalnaker, Frederick, Houston, Evans, Hall, Susman, G. White, Browning, Border, Warner, Boggs and Varner)


(Originating in the Committee on Finance)

[Introduced February 26, 2003]


Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance conduct a study of newborn screenings related to the detection and control of hemoglobinopathies and other diseases that are usually associated with mental retardation and other severe health problems.

Whereas, A number of serious inherited disorders can be identified in the first few days after birth; and
Whereas, Early treatment will prevent physical disability, mental retardation and, in some cases, death; and
Whereas, Inborn errors of body chemistry can be detected in newborns through screening tests requiring a small amount of blood; and
Whereas, West Virginia currently provides screening for PKU, Congenital Hypothyroidism, Galactosemia and hearing for all newborns; and
Whereas, A minimum of ten core newborn screens are recommended for all newborns; and
Whereas, West Virginia is committed to make every effort to provide appropriate testing to newborns; therefore, be it
Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:
That the Legislature hereby requests the Joint Committee on Government and Finance conduct a study on this issue with consideration of recommended infant screening tests, the costs and the sources of payment with participation by representatives from the state laboratory, the Office of Maternal Child Health, the Medicaid agency and community advocates ; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the regular session of the Legislature, 2004, on its findings, conclusions and recommendations, together with drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this study, to prepare a report and to draft necessary legislation be paid from the legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.