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Bill

HB 336

Education; local school systems to provide certain information to parents and guardians of students in grades six through twelve on sickle cell disease; require

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Michelle Au and 5 co-sponsors

House Bill 336 requires schools to provide parents of grades 6-12 students with essential information on sickle cell disease to promote awareness and early detection.

House Second Readers
0
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Bill Summary · HB 336

Summary of House Bill 336

Bill Number: HB 336
Title: Education; local school systems to provide certain information to parents and guardians of students in grades six through twelve on sickle cell disease; require
Status: House Second Readers
Introduced: February 06, 2025

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 336 aims to enhance awareness and understanding of sickle cell disease among parents and guardians of students in grades six through twelve. The bill mandates local school systems to provide specific information about sickle cell disease whenever they distribute other health-related information to parents and guardians. This initiative seeks to ensure that families are informed about the disease, its risk factors, and the importance of screening and treatment.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes the following key provisions:

  1. Information Requirement:

    • Local boards of education must include information about sickle cell disease when providing health information related to immunizations, infectious diseases, medications, or other health issues.
  2. Content of Information:

    • The information provided must include:
      • A description of sickle cell disease.
      • Risk factors and warning signs associated with the disease.
      • Recommendations for parents or guardians to consult with a primary care provider if warning signs are observed.
      • An overview of the screening processes for sickle cell disease.
      • Guidance on developing a treatment plan post-diagnosis in consultation with a primary care provider.
  3. Collaboration with Health Departments:

    • The Georgia Department of Education, in collaboration with the Department of Public Health, is tasked with developing and disseminating this information efficiently, including making it available on their public website.

Affected Parties

  • Students in Grades 6-12: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are students in middle and high school, particularly those at risk for sickle cell disease.
  • Parents and Guardians: The bill directly impacts parents and guardians by providing them with essential health information that can lead to early detection and management of sickle cell disease.
  • Local School Systems: Schools will be responsible for implementing the new requirements and ensuring that the necessary information is communicated effectively.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Timeline:

    • February 06, 2025: Bill introduced and entered the House Hopper.
    • February 10, 2025: Bill read for the first time in the House.
    • February 11, 2025: Bill read for the second time in the House.
  • Repeal of Conflicting Laws: The bill includes a provision to repeal any existing laws that conflict with its requirements.

Conclusion

House Bill 336 represents a proactive approach to public health education within the school system, aiming to equip families with crucial information about sickle cell disease. By mandating the inclusion of this information in health communications, the bill seeks to promote early diagnosis and effective management of the disease among students.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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