LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Michigan is stepping up its fight against childhood lead poisoning with new rules now in effect that require all children to be tested for lead at 12 months and again at 24 months. The move comes as part of a sweeping effort to prevent irreversible damage caused by early exposure to the toxic metal.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed two key bills into law in October 2023 that had bipartisan support – Public Acts 145 and 146 – making “universal testing” mandatory and integrating the results into children’s immunization records.
Michigan mandates lead screening for all toddlers.
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The legislation was passed with immediate effect, but enforcement now begins more than a year later with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) finalizing the rules. Physicians are now officially required to conduct or order blood lead tests for all Michigan toddlers at the critical ages of 12 and 24 months.
“There’s no safe level of lead in the blood,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, Michigan’s chief medical executive, in the state’s press release. She continued to say, “Universal blood lead testing will increase the number of children tested in the state. She added, “Families can also be alerted to the need to identify and address any hazards in their home that could be causing elevated levels, such as paint, plumbing or soil.”
From paint to pipes: hidden hazards make lead testing a lifesaving step.
Lead poisoning can impair learning, behavior, speech, hearing, and even growth. It’s particularly devastating for infants and young children whose nervous systems are still developing. Common sources of exposure include paint in homes built before 1978, contaminated soil, aging plumbing, and imported goods.
Under the new rules, if a child misses those initial tests, a catch-up test is required between ages 2 and 6. Additional testing may also be needed based on specific risk factors.
Children with elevated lead levels may qualify for state support programs, including the Lead Safe Home Program and in-home nursing case management. These services help families track down the source of lead and take action to eliminate it.
For those who feel strongly about not participating, families can opt out. To learn more, visit Michigan.gov/MiLeadSafe.
