Committee hears hours-long debate over LB310, a bill to allow parents to opt out of Nebraska newborn screening

Ben Hansen, a state senator and introducer of LB 310, told the Health and Human Services Committee the bill would add an opt‑out for parents who proactively decline newborn screening and that "47 other states acknowledge that parents have a right to object to newborn screening." He said the bill preserves routine screening for parents who do not opt out and that his amendment (AM 79) would require a written refusal form and information for parents before they decline.

The bill drew a lengthy public record of personal testimony and expert opposition. Supporters, including multiple parents and home‑birth advocates, urged the panel to protect parental authority over medical decisions. Novelin Shipman, a proponent, said, "This is my child... I would ask that the state... allow me to make the best decision for my child." Alexis Stangel testified she was threatened with child‑welfare action after being told the state would "turn me into the state for child neglect" when she could not find an affordable facility for the test.

Medical witnesses and public‑health officials urged the committee not to adopt the change. Dr. Anne…