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Senate committee approves introduction of bill to move newborn screening rules into Idaho code
Summary
The Senate Health and Welfare Committee voted to introduce RS 31799C1, a proposal that would transfer newborn screening requirements from the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare’s rules into statute. Sponsors said the change codifies existing practice and gives the Legislature direct oversight.
Senator Blaylock told the Senate Health and Welfare Committee on Oct. 12, 2025, that RS 31799C1 would transfer authority and oversight of newborn screening requirements from the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare’s administrative rules into Idaho code. "These are the same rules that we reviewed and approved, in this committee last week," Blaylock said. He told the committee the proposal would repeal six sections of Idaho code and eliminate seven pages of agency rules related to newborn screening.
Blaylock said the requirement for newborn screening tests on infants born in Idaho dates to 1921 and that the RS does not introduce new tests or substantial changes; it moves the current rules into statute so the Legislature has greater oversight. "This legislation does not introduce new requirements or impose, substantial changes," he said.
Senator Harris moved to introduce RS 31799C1 and send it to print; Senator Shippey seconded. The motion carried on a voice vote.
Ending: The committee approved introduction of RS 31799C1 for printing and further consideration. The motion does not itself change law; it places the proposal into the legislative process for subsequent committee hearings, amendments and floor consideration.
