Connecticut Senate Bill SB00452

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/17
• Refer: 1/19/17

Caption

An Act Establishing A Pilot Program For Sickle Cell Disease Awareness And Prevention.

Impact

Should SB00452 be enacted, it will modify existing state laws related to marriage license applications by including a health screening component. This change seeks to facilitate early intervention and education about sickle cell disease, a genetic disorder that predominantly affects certain populations. The program's success could serve as a critical case study for future public health initiatives aimed at genetic diseases, setting a precedent for similar programs addressing various inherited conditions.

Summary

SB00452, also known as the Act Establishing A Pilot Program For Sickle Cell Disease Awareness And Prevention, aims to enhance awareness and preventive measures regarding sickle cell disease, particularly in populations at risk. The bill mandates that individuals applying for a marriage license answer questions concerning their genetic predisposition to sickle cell disease. This initiative is targeted toward childbearing age groups to encourage informed family planning and potentially reduce the incidence of the disease in future generations. The underlying goal is to implement a pilot program that could inform broader public health strategies.

Contention

However, the bill may face challenges and points of contention from various stakeholders. Critics might argue that requiring genetic inquiries during the marriage license process could be viewed as an invasion of privacy or raise concerns about the implications of genetic information being used inappropriately. Additionally, the enforcement and logistics of implementing such a program may lead to debates over potential stigmatization of individuals based on their genetic backgrounds. Balancing public health awareness with personal rights will be a crucial consideration as discussions proceed.