Researcher: JO Page 1 3/12/25
OLR Bill Analysis
HB 6919
AN ACT REQUIRING NEWBORN SCREENING FOR DUCHENNE
MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY.
SUMMARY
Starting July 1, 2027, this bill requires all newborns to be tested for
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) as part of the Department of
Public Health’s newborn screening program for genetic and metabolic
disorders.
Under existing law, the newborn screening program requires health
care institutions, licensed nurse-midwives, and midwives to perform
newborn screenings using blood spot specimens between 24 and 48
hours after the infant’s birth, except under limited conditions (e.g., it is
medically contraindicated or a parent objects on religious grounds).
EFFECTIVE DATE: July 1, 2025
BACKGROUND
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
DMD is one of the most severe forms of muscular dystrophy
characterized by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness. It
usually presents between ages two and three and primarily affects
males.
COMMITTEE ACTION
Public Health Committee
Joint Favorable
Yea 32 Nay 0 (03/05/2025)