The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) recently finalized administrative rules requiring blood lead testing for all children at 12 and 24 months of age, following legislation signed into law by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in October 2023. The policy is now in effect under Public Acts 145 and 146 of 2023.
Under the new mandate, physicians must test or order blood lead tests at the designated ages. If no test results are available, children between the ages of two and six must be screened. All results must be documented in the child’s immunization record.
The universal testing requirement aims to identify lead exposure early and prevent long-term health impacts. Lead poisoning can result in developmental delays, behavioral issues, and damage to the nervous system. No amount of lead in the blood is considered safe, particularly for young children and pregnant individuals.
The new rules also expand access to services for children with elevated lead levels (defined as 3.5 micrograms per deciliter or higher). Eligible children may receive:
- Nursing case management to help families identify and reduce sources of lead exposure.
- Assistance through the Lead Safe Home Program, which supports remediation of lead hazards in qualifying homes.
Program eligibility is based on household income, Medicaid status and property location. Blood lead testing is covered without cost-sharing under the Affordable Care Act. While providers are required to offer testing, parents and legal guardians retain the right to opt out.
Families are encouraged to speak with their child’s health care provider, especially if the home was built before 1978 or if other lead exposure risks are present. For more information on testing and support services, visit the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services website.
The MHA is preparing an executive summary of the new rules, which will be shared with members in the coming weeks.
Members with questions may contact Lenise Freeman at the MHA.