New Jersey would screen newborns for a virus acquired before birth

Care providers would screen newborns for congenital cytomegalovirus. This would cover every newborn born in New Jersey. A parent or guardian could opt out for any reason. Screening would use a dried blood spot sent to state laboratories. Screening would happen before discharge or, when medically appropriate, as soon afterward as practical, and always within 21 days of birth. The requirement would take effect immediately if enacted.

The state would set aside money from its general fund for the Department of Health. The money would compensate patients and health care facilities for costs of following these rules. The bill sets no fixed dollar amount; it calls for the sums needed to cover those costs. The appropriation would take effect immediately if enacted.